Ben Gvir Demands Netanyahu Pledge Not to Sit With Gantz, Golan

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has publicly demanded that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commit to not forming a future government that includes Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot. This demand comes amid reports that Netanyahu had previously assured Ben Gvir that his Otzma Yehudit party would be included in any future coalition.

A statement released by Otzma Yehudit accused the Prime Minister's office of "deep contempt" for right-wing voters, alleging a dual strategy of sending messages abroad that Ben Gvir would be excluded while publicly stating his inclusion. The party specifically targeted Gantz and Eisenkot, claiming Netanyahu desires Eisenkot in the next government "instead of Ben Gvir," noting Eisenkot's past surplus agreement with Gantz. The statement pointed out that neither Netanyahu nor Eisenkot have denied these reports.

Ben Gvir's demand follows a period where he has repeatedly claimed Netanyahu intends to exclude Otzma Yehudit after the elections to form a broader government with figures like Gantz. The party insists that Netanyahu must publicly pledge not to sit with Gantz and Eisenkot.