Netanyahu Responds to Ben-Gvir, Vows to Form Government on Current Coalition Basis

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has responded to recent reports suggesting that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir does not wish to serve with his Otzma Yehudit party in the next government. Netanyahu clarified on Thursday that his intention is to form the next government primarily based on the current coalition partners, adhering to their "basic principles."

During a Likud campaign event, Netanyahu framed the upcoming elections as a critical juncture for Israel, stating, "This is a huge victory for the State of Israel or a huge defeat. All our enemies want us to lose." He emphasized that the public will need to choose between his government's path and that of his rivals.

Netanyahu asserted that his government had rescued Israel from destruction and transformed it into a superpower, warning that a victory for his opponents would dismantle these achievements. He urged the public to understand the stakes involved.

Concerns have been raised within Ben-Gvir's circle regarding Netanyahu's mention of forming a "broad national government." Sources close to the Otzma Yehudit chairman believe this phrasing allows the Prime Minister flexibility after the elections to select coalition partners more freely. Ben-Gvir himself has stated he would not be a "decoration" in a government that includes opposition figures like Benny Gantz, Ayelet Shaked, and Yair Lapid.