Ben Gvir Demands Defense Ministry, Judicial Overhaul in Coalition Talks

Otzma Yehudit party leader Itamar Ben Gvir announced his party's demands for the next government, seeking the Defense Ministry for himself and proposing MK Tali Gottlieb for Justice Minister. Ben Gvir, currently National Security Minister, stated his intention to move to the Defense Ministry, with MK Yitzhak Wasserlauf potentially taking over the National Security Ministry. Ben Gvir also outlined a broad security and judicial reform agenda.

The proposed security plan includes encouraging voluntary emigration from Gaza and the West Bank, dismantling the Palestinian Authority's military capabilities, and arresting senior figures accused of supporting terrorism. Ben Gvir also called for changes to open-fire regulations, increased soldier pay, and land allocation for combat soldiers. The plan further suggests altering the IDF's ethical code and opening elite units, such as Unit 8200, to the general public.

On the judicial front, Otzma Yehudit aims to immediately dismiss the Attorney General and reform the process for appointing Supreme Court justices, requiring a hearing in the Knesset Constitution Committee and a two-thirds majority approval. The party also seeks to return the Supreme Court to its "natural purpose" by redefining standing requirements and non-justiciable matters. Additionally, they propose abolishing a candidate screening course and reforming legal treatment for criminal organizations and terrorists, including harsher penalties.

Ben Gvir criticized current Justice Minister Yariv Levin and Constitution Committee Chairman Simcha Rothman regarding the judicial reform process. Gottlieb, who is second on Otzma Yehudit's list, is slated to receive the Justice portfolio under Ben Gvir's plan. The demand for the Defense Ministry comes amid similar interest from Ofer Winter and the "Am Israel" party.