Ben-Gvir Demands Defense Minister Role in Next Government

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced Tuesday that he will demand the position of Defense Minister in the upcoming government. He stated that his current ministry, the National Security Ministry, will remain with his party, Otzma Yehudit, whose candidate for the role is Minister Yitzhak Wasserlauf. Ben-Gvir also proposed MK Tali Gottlieb, who recently left the Likud party for his list, as his party's candidate for Justice Minister, asserting she would "return power to the people of Israel and deal with those who file cases against the Prime Minister." However, according to the Deri-Pinchasi precedent, Gottlieb may be ineligible to serve as minister due to an indictment, though she has immunity, potentially requiring a judicial review.

At a press conference, Ben-Gvir outlined his security plan for the next government, which includes encouraging the voluntary emigration of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. Responding to a question about a potential diplomatic crisis if appointed Defense Minister, he referenced a past comment from Yoav Gallant, saying, "I won't forget Yoav Gallant, who once told me, they can still issue an arrest warrant against you. In the end, he was the first one they issued an arrest warrant against. Woe unto us if we start and do things according to the will of various other countries."

When asked if his demand could harm the right-wing bloc in the upcoming elections, Ben-Gvir responded, "We are only increasing the bloc's ability to win. The composition we are proposing is a winning composition." His demand has drawn criticism from other party leaders. Yair Golan, chairman of the Democrats, stated, "Ben-Gvir can ask for any portfolio he wants. After October 27th, the only portfolio he will need is a backpack, preferably with room for two canteens, we are sending him on a very long trip to the opposition." Former Defense Minister Benny Gantz also opposed Ben-Gvir's declaration, saying, "We do not entrust the security of our children to extremists."