Itamar Ben Gvir Accuses Netanyahu of Cynical Unity Call Amid Smotrich-Paiglin Talks

Itamar Ben Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister, sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday night following reports of advanced merger talks between Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich and Otzma Yehudit leader Moshe Feiglin. Ben Gvir accused Netanyahu of staging a cynical call for unity with him, aimed solely at pressuring Feiglin during negotiations. "The emotional call for unity was a cynical game," Ben Gvir wrote, emphasizing, "My name is Itamar Ben Gvir, not Benny Gantz."

Ben Gvir expressed surprise at the reports that Smotrich and Feiglin were conducting merger talks with Netanyahu's mediation, suggesting the unity appeal was a tactic to lower Feiglin's demands. He also criticized Netanyahu and Smotrich for previously avoiding events with him and being reluctant to be photographed alongside him.

The political sources reported on Friday that merger talks between Religious Zionism and Otzma Yehudit were at an advanced stage, with Feiglin demanding a re-ranking on the joint list. Ben Gvir's remarks highlight tensions within the right-wing factions as they negotiate electoral alliances ahead of upcoming elections.