Ben-Gvir Rebuts Critics, Says Israel Must Not Apologize

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir rejected criticism on Monday in an interview with 103FM over a post he published after the tank commander tragedy in Lebanon, where he wrote, "On every tear of an Israeli mother, a thousand Lebanese mothers should cry." He said the message strengthens Israel abroad, arguing, "Every such thing contributes in the world, it deters, it makes the world understand there are also ministers in the Israeli government who do not follow this diplomatic line."

Ben-Gvir attacked what he described as years of excessive restraint by Foreign Ministry officials. "For too many years those officials told us fairy tales, 'This is not good,' 'This is diplomatic damage,' and what did we get from that? The world always attacked us," he said. He added, "What did we get from handing out sandwiches to terror supporters? They always laughed at us. It is time to say, Israel is not a punching bag, there is a lot of appreciation and understanding in the world."

On American pressure over Iran and Lebanon, Ben-Gvir said Israel should treat "these Nazis" as the Americans treated the Nazis in the past. He said that to Donald Trump one should say, "We love you," and "We appreciate you," but "these are our soldiers, these are our residents, and this is our red line." He also addressed reports that his U.S. visa was denied, saying he had only needed to travel for a private wedding, had said he was not going on an official trip, and therefore did not use his diplomatic passport. "I did something no minister does and I was very honest," he said.

Asked whether Israel might have to act without U.S. backing, Ben-Gvir said it ultimately would. "With all due respect to the United States and all the partners, I have children at home, and I do not want those children to live in another five, ten years under an atomic threat," he said.