Ben Gvir Rejects Netanyahu's Call to Unite with Smotrich Ahead of Elections
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
Prime Minister Netanyahu called for a right-wing electoral alliance between Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, but Ben Gvir rejected the proposal, citing potential seat losses. This contrasts with his previous cooperation with Smotrich in 2022, revealing growing tensions within the right-wing bloc ahead of upcoming elections.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Netanyahu urged Ben Gvir and Smotrich to unite their parties for upcoming elections.
- Ben Gvir strongly rejected the unity proposal, fearing a loss of 3-4 Knesset seats.
- In 2022, Ben Gvir had supported and signed a joint election agreement with Smotrich.
- The disagreement highlights divisions within the right-wing camp before elections.
- Netanyahu has repeatedly sought right-wing unity to consolidate votes.
- Ben Gvir's current opposition contrasts with his previous cooperative stance.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently urged National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to unite their parties into a joint technical bloc for the upcoming elections. This proposal sparked a public dispute, with Ben Gvir firmly rejecting the idea, arguing that such a union would cost the right-wing bloc 3 to 4 Knesset seats.
This stance contrasts sharply with Ben Gvir's approach during the 2022 elections, when he embraced a partnership with Smotrich. At that time, Ben Gvir publicly shared their joint election agreement on social media, inviting Smotrich to sign and celebrate their unity.
Netanyahu has previously called for right-wing unity to consolidate votes, but Ben Gvir's current opposition highlights internal divisions within the right-wing camp ahead of the elections. The disagreement underscores the challenges Netanyahu faces in maintaining cohesion among right-wing factions. The political dynamics remain fluid as the elections approach.
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