Likud Blasts Itamar Ben Gvir for Splitting Right-Wing Vote, Risking Left-Wing Government

The Likud party launched a sharp attack against Minister Itamar Ben Gvir on Friday, accusing him of jeopardizing the right-wing bloc by refusing to unite with Bezalel Smotrich. Likud warned that this split could pave the way for a left-wing government involving figures like Gadi Eizenkot, Avigdor Lieberman, Yair Golan, and Arab parties, which they claim would reverse the policies of the current Netanyahu-led government.

In a statement, Likud criticized Ben Gvir for "burning tens of thousands of right-wing votes" and questioned whether he wants to continue supporting a broad national government under Netanyahu, which they credit with historic advances in settlement and security. They referenced past failures, such as the 1992 Oslo Accords, as a cautionary example of right-wing vote splitting.

Likud highlighted the current government's achievements, including efforts to prevent Iran's nuclear threat and military actions against Hezbollah and Hamas leaders. They warned that Ben Gvir’s insistence on running separately endangers these gains and accused him of irresponsibility, asking if he wants to maintain or topple the national momentum.

The party also issued a personal warning to Ben Gvir that a left-wing government formed due to the split would "evict you from your home, Itamar," establish a Palestinian state, weaken the IDF, shut down Channel 14, and return Israel to an era of persecution against right-wing activists. Likud urged Ben Gvir to overcome personal ego, show maturity, and unite for the sake of the right and the country.

This confrontation comes amid Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s mediation efforts. Netanyahu summoned Ben Gvir and Smotrich for urgent meetings on Sunday and previously released a video urging unity to save the right-wing bloc, noting that splits have historically led to electoral defeat. However, Otzma Yehudit, Ben Gvir’s party, rejected reconciliation outright, declaring the rift final and suggesting Netanyahu use Likud’s "surplus votes" to support Smotrich instead of pushing for unity.

Summary: Likud condemned Itamar Ben Gvir for splitting the right-wing vote by refusing to unite with Bezalel Smotrich, warning this risks enabling a left-wing government. Netanyahu is mediating between the factions, but Ben Gvir’s party rejects reconciliation, deepening the political divide.