Netanyahu Reassures Ben Gvir, Gottlieb Amid Coalition Concerns

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held direct talks with National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Knesset Member Tali Gottlieb in an effort to quell concerns within the far-right Otzma Yehudit party that they might be excluded from a future government. Ben Gvir's party is actively campaigning to attract right-wing voters, including those who might otherwise vote for Netanyahu's Likud party, by suggesting Netanyahu intends to form a government without them.

Initially, the Likud conveyed calming messages to Ben Gvir, urging him to cease his public criticism. When these overtures failed, Netanyahu engaged in a direct conversation with Ben Gvir, assuring him that if he forms the next government, it would be based on the current coalition's composition and its foundational principles.

Netanyahu also met with MK Gottlieb as part of these efforts to establish common ground. However, Gottlieb stated she was unconvinced by Netanyahu's explanations. She recounted that the Prime Minister attempted to persuade her that Ben Gvir was mistaken and would not form a government with Benny Gantz's National Unity party, specifically mentioning Gantz's number two, Gabi Eisenkot. Gottlieb countered that Ben Gvir was correct and that Netanyahu historically preferred relying on left and center parties. She claimed Netanyahu had relegated her to the 20th spot on the Likud list to prevent her from blocking a government with Eisenkot instead of Ben Gvir, urging right-wing voters to support Otzma Yehudit to keep Netanyahu on the right.

Senior Likud officials are reportedly worried about Otzma Yehudit's independent stance and its potential to gain a significant number of Knesset seats. Conversely, Otzma Yehudit denied the reports of internal friction, claiming the opposite is true. They stated that concerning reports have emerged, including over the past weekend, alleging that the Prime Minister's office has sent messages to various countries indicating Otzma Yehudit will not be part of the next government.