Opposition Slams Ben-Gvir's Demand for Defense Minister Post

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced Tuesday evening that he will demand that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appoint him as the next Defense Minister. Ben-Gvir also stated his intention to seek the appointment of Tally Gotliv as Justice Minister in the next government.

Opposition leaders reacted swiftly and sharply to Ben-Gvir's declaration. Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the National Unity Party, described Ben-Gvir's ambition as a "real danger to the country's security," accusing Netanyahu of having "lost it." Eisenkot vowed to prevent Netanyahu from forming "a government of draft dodgers and disasters on steroids," calling it a sure path to further catastrophe.

Eisenkot urged all Israelis to recognize that the current leadership "cannot lead Israel" and lacks the ability to bring security or unite the nation, predicting only "further incitement, division, and failure." He pledged to work with his bloc partners to establish a "sane and good government" for all citizens.

Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid, chairman of the Yesh Atid party, expressed concern that Ben-Gvir's demand for the Defense portfolio is "not absurd and not impossible." Lapid warned that if Netanyahu forms the next government, "a convicted terrorist and TikTok clown who never served a day in the army will be Defense Minister," questioning if Netanyahu would grant him the position if it were the deciding factor.

Yair Golan, leader of the Meretz party, promised to send Ben-Gvir into opposition, stating that after October 27th, the only "bag" Ben-Gvir will need is a backpack for a "very long trip in the opposition."