Deep Personal Animosity Fuels Rift Between Israeli Ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly pressuring National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to unite their parties, but Ben-Gvir is vehemently refusing even to enter negotiations. This resistance stems from a deeply acrimonious relationship between the two, characterized by personal animosity and mutual distrust, according to sources close to both factions.

Insiders describe Smotrich's view of Ben-Gvir as "irresponsible," "dangerous," and "addicted to media attention," willing to take extreme measures for headlines. Smotrich has publicly criticized Ben-Gvir's handling of Arab society crime as a "disgrace" and suggested he "lost his way," focusing on election campaigns since the coalition's inception. He also hinted at seeking control of ministries currently held by Ben-Gvir's party in the future.

Ben-Gvir reciprocates these negative sentiments, viewing Smotrich as arrogant and out of touch with the broader public beyond his core supporters. Ben-Gvir believes Smotrich fails to connect with wider right-wing demographics, including those in the periphery, Mizrahi, and traditional communities. He argues that a joint list would alienate voters who might otherwise support Otzma Yehudit independently.

Ben-Gvir has presented polling data to Netanyahu suggesting that an independent run could attract votes from the periphery and Mizrahi right-wing voters alienated by Smotrich. He publicly stated that a union would cost the right-wing bloc three to four mandates, a key argument against Netanyahu's push for unity.

Meanwhile, Smotrich is advancing merger talks with Moshe Feiglin's Zehut party, with Feiglin reportedly slated for the second position on their joint list. These negotiations are proceeding concurrently with Netanyahu's calls for Smotrich and Ben-Gvir to discuss unification, with the Prime Minister emphasizing the need to consolidate the right-wing bloc to prevent wasted votes.