Ben-Gvir Opens Front Against Magal, Eyes Defense Minister Role
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir engaged in a public dispute with Channel 14 host Yinon Magal, criticizing his program's lack of representation for Ben-Gvir's party. In a radio interview, Ben-Gvir also voiced concerns about potential unity government talks involving Gadi Eisenkot and declared his aspiration to become Defense Minister. He claimed five countries have agreed to accept Gazan residents for payment and defended his government's achievements in the Negev region.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized host Yinon Magal for not inviting his party to "The Patriots" program.
- Ben-Gvir expressed concern over potential unity government talks involving Gadi Eisenkot.
- Ben-Gvir stated his ambition to be appointed Defense Minister in the next government.
- He claimed five countries have agreed to accept Gazan residents in exchange for money.
- Ben-Gvir defended his government's actions and achievements in the Negev region.
Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has publicly clashed with Channel 14 host Yinon Magal, accusing him of never inviting Ben-Gvir's party to his program, "The Patriots." In a heated interview on 103FM, Ben-Gvir also expressed concern about potential unity government talks involving former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, stating he aims to become the next Defense Minister. Ben-Gvir criticized Magal's remarks, calling them "malicious," and defended Eisenkot against accusations of racism, asserting Eisenkot has brought many Mizrahi individuals onto his show.
Ben-Gvir voiced unease over messages from within the Likud party, suggesting a potential unity government and signaling that Ben-Gvir himself might not be included. He cited Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's busy schedule but warned that Likud officials like Miki Zohar and others are discussing a unity government, while Israeli Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter explicitly told CNN that Ben-Gvir would not be part of such a government. Ben-Gvir also reiterated his strong opposition to Eisenkot joining the government, describing him as "ultra-left" and believing his inclusion would hinder the right-wing agenda, particularly regarding judicial appointments. He argued that an election victory is crucial to prevent losing the Galilee and Negev regions.
During the interview, Ben-Gvir defended his actions in the Negev, claiming he has achieved more in two months than previous governments in 40 years, citing increased police presence and a reduction in murders in the Arab sector following the integration of the Shin Bet. He also revealed that five countries have agreed to accept Gazan residents in exchange for financial compensation. Ben-Gvir expressed his ambition to become Defense Minister, believing his party's strong electoral performance would prevent a coalition with Eisenkot and allow for greater support for soldiers. He also criticized the investigation into Prime Minister Netanyahu, calling it a "disgrace," and asserted his pride in making things difficult for Hamas, advocating for the dismantling of the Palestinian Authority.
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