Ben-Gvir Expresses Hurt Over Strained Ties With Netanyahu
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has revealed a significant shift in his relationship with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that individuals within the Prime Minister's office are attempting to distance him from Netanyahu. In an interview with Maariv, Ben-Gvir described how Netanyahu has stopped responding to his calls, a stark contrast to their previously close interactions.
Ben-Gvir has publicly voiced concerns, particularly in social media videos over the past month, that Netanyahu might form a broad government with Gadi Eisenkot after the upcoming elections, potentially excluding Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party from the coalition. He considers this scenario realistic, citing Netanyahu's past decisions to sideline parties like "Ichud Leumi" in favor of alliances with figures like Ehud Barak in 2009 and again in 2013.
He vehemently denied that his public criticism of Netanyahu is a coordinated strategy, asserting that his frustration is genuine. Ben-Gvir expressed personal respect for Netanyahu, acknowledging his age and leadership, but stated he has the right to voice his concerns. He admitted to feeling hurt and angered by the sudden cessation of their previously strong relationship, which he described as having been very good for the past two years.
Ben-Gvir speculated that Netanyahu might have "other plans" or that international circumstances could be influencing the distancing. He highlighted his party's crucial role in forming and sustaining the coalition over the past four years, recalling frequent, lengthy private meetings with Netanyahu, sometimes involving their wives.
Ben-Gvir believes that advisors are influencing Netanyahu against him, telling the Prime Minister that his association is "discrediting" him. Despite the personal strain, Ben-Gvir emphasized that his focus remains on national interests, such as judicial appointments and Supreme Court judge nominations, which he deems more important than personal dignity. He reiterated that Netanyahu has been unresponsive to his calls in recent weeks.
