Ben-Gvir Reveals Netanyahu Offered Him Foreign Ministry Role

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir disclosed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had offered him the position of Foreign Minister during coalition negotiations. Ben-Gvir recounted the event at a celebratory event for his ministry, stating that Netanyahu initially suggested the Foreign Ministry portfolio, which Ben-Gvir found surprising.

Ben-Gvir recalled telling Netanyahu he wanted to be National Security Minister, to which Netanyahu reportedly responded, "Are you sure? It's political suicide." Ben-Gvir then stated Netanyahu offered him the Foreign Ministry, an offer he considered jokingly at first. He explained his refusal by saying he couldn't envision himself hosting diplomatic events while living in Hebron, implying a preference for a role more aligned with his political base.

He also mentioned that several other political figures, including Yair Golan, Sagolovich, Smotrich, Regev, Izankot, and Bennett, were interested in the National Security Minister position. Ben-Gvir expressed his intention to seek a more senior role in the next government, emphasizing that the National Security Ministry should remain under the control of his party, Otzma Yehudit.

Ben-Gvir marked four years in his current role, noting that some initially opposed his appointment. He expressed confidence in achieving a strong result in the upcoming elections and securing a more significant ministerial position.