Ben-Gvir Accuses Netanyahu of Promising Europeans He Won't Be in Next Government

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, claiming that the Prime Minister's office has officially committed to several European Union countries that Ben-Gvir will not be part of the next government. Ben-Gvir stated that he possesses verified information that a clear message was conveyed to these countries, either to their foreign ministers or higher-ranking officials, indicating Netanyahu's intention not to include him in the upcoming coalition.

Ben-Gvir expressed deep sorrow over these reports, which he had heard for a long time but hoped were untrue. He directly addressed Netanyahu, urging him not to rely on legitimacy from the left, and suggested that true historical recognition would come from implementing genuine right-wing policies and saving Israeli democracy. He emphasized that Netanyahu needs a strong Ben-Gvir, not a strong Gadi Eisenkot, and warned that attempts by the Likud party to reduce Otzma Yehudit's support could endanger the right-wing bloc's rule, potentially causing Ben-Gvir's voters to stay home.

Ben-Gvir reminded Netanyahu of his past support, stating that he prevented a move to oust the Prime Minister from within the Likud. He asserted that a vote for Otzma Yehudit is an automatic vote for Netanyahu as Prime Minister, but stressed that a strong Ben-Gvir is necessary for a strong, genuine right-wing government, rather than a weak centrist one.

Responding to a question about Netanyahu's previous remarks that he wanted Ben-Gvir in the government but not in security-related portfolios, Ben-Gvir sarcastically questioned if he would be relegated to Minister of Tourism while Eisenkot became Defense Minister. He reiterated that Netanyahu had conveyed messages to European leaders stating Ben-Gvir would not be in the next government.

The Likud party responded to Ben-Gvir's claims, calling them "false political spins" and "friendly fire." They asserted that the Prime Minister has clarified that any future government will include the current coalition partners and that any Zionist party is invited to join based on their core principles and the current composition. The Likud urged voters to cast their ballots for the Likud to prevent a left-wing government led by Eisenkot with Arab parties, Yair Golan, Lieberman, and Bennett, and to complete necessary security tasks with American support.