Ben-Gvir and Likud Spokesperson Clash Over Future Government

Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed concern Tuesday that elements within the Likud party are planning to form a unity government with Gadi Eisenkot after the upcoming elections. During an interview on the "Riklin & Co." program, Ben-Gvir engaged in a heated exchange with Likud spokesperson Guy Levy, who refuted the claims and stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to form a government based on the current coalition. Ben-Gvir stated he wants to sit "next to Bibi" in the next government, not in a position that Eisenkot might occupy, and voiced fears that Eisenkot's potential inclusion could influence appointments of senior judges and the next Attorney General. He cited statements from Yaakov Bardugo, Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter, and Minister Miki Zohar as evidence of Likud's alleged intentions, adding that messages had been sent to European capitals suggesting he would not be part of the next government.

Levy countered that Ben-Gvir's claims were untrue and that Bardugo's statements were misrepresented. He asserted that the Likud's position is to form the next government with the current coalition partners, and only after securing a majority would other figures be considered if they accept the party's principles. Levy emphasized that Netanyahu plans to maintain the partnership with Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit party, stating, "Itamar Ben-Gvir will be a senior minister in the next government! His party will be part of the coalition." Levy suggested Ben-Gvir's criticism was electorally motivated, aimed at drawing voters from the Likud.

Ben-Gvir, while expressing respect for Netanyahu and Levy, reiterated his demand for clarity regarding a potential partnership with Eisenkot, questioning why the Likud would consider him given his perceived left-wing stance. Levy denied that messages were sent to Europe against Ben-Gvir's inclusion in the government, pointing to Netanyahu's public statements about Ben-Gvir serving as a senior minister. Towards the end of the exchange, Levy praised Ben-Gvir's work in security prisons but urged him to cease his campaign against the Likud, saying, "We are with you, release the campaign from us." Ben-Gvir concluded by stating his intention to strengthen Otzma Yehudit in the upcoming elections to ensure its influence on future government policy.