Ben-Gvir Demands Defense Ministry Post, Outlines Security Plan

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has officially demanded the position of Defense Minister in the next Israeli government. Ben-Gvir, who also chairs the Otzma Yehudit party, presented a security plan that includes encouraging the voluntary emigration of Gazans and West Bank residents, and abandoning the concept of deterrence. His proposal also calls for the disarmament of Palestinian organizations, the arrest of individuals supporting terrorism, and changes to rules of engagement for soldiers, including increased salaries and free land plots.

Ben-Gvir's plan further suggests revising the military's code of ethics and opening access to elite units, such as Unit 8200, to all segments of the population. Concurrently, Knesset member Tali Gottlieb has put forward a judicial reform agenda, seeking the Justice Ministry portfolio. Her plan includes the immediate resignation of the Attorney General upon the formation of a new cabinet.

Gottlieb's judicial initiative proposes altering the Supreme Court justice appointment process. This would involve mandatory hearings in the Knesset's Constitution Committee and approval by a two-thirds majority. The plan also aims to redefine the powers of the Supreme Court, restoring its original function of verifying legal capacity and establishing a list of issues beyond judicial review.