Netanyahu Pressures Ben Gvir to Unite with Smotrich Despite Political Risks

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister Itamar Ben Gvir met last week, during which Netanyahu insisted that Ben Gvir join forces with Bezalel Smotrich on a single electoral list. Ben Gvir opposed the idea, arguing that such a union would harm both parties. He presented Netanyahu with detailed polls indicating that a merger between Otzma Yehudit and the Religious Zionist Party would significantly reduce Ben Gvir's potential mandate, alienate young and first-time voters, peripheral residents who do not identify with Smotrich, and even some ultra-Orthodox voters considering Otzma Yehudit.

Netanyahu acknowledged these concerns but rejected Ben Gvir's proposal to reserve a spot for Smotrich within Likud, warning that Smotrich's inclusion could also damage Likud electorally. Following the meeting, Netanyahu attempted to broker a union between Smotrich and Bezalel Winter, but recognizing the improbability of success, he has now embarked on a public campaign of pressure against Ben Gvir.