Minister Ben-Gvir Threatens Journalist During Radio Interview

A heated exchange occurred during a radio interview on 103fm between Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir and journalists Avishai Grinzeig and Barak Sari. Ben-Gvir accused Grinzeig of having an obsession with him and threatened to embarrass him on air. Grinzeig, however, challenged the minister to reveal whatever he knew.

The confrontation began when Ben-Gvir commented on Arab voter turnout in elections, suggesting it aimed at his political downfall. Grinzeig interrupted to question why police crime statistics had not been published. When Ben-Gvir attempted to conclude his remarks, Sari intervened, allowing Grinzeig to ask his question.

At this point, Ben-Gvir turned his attention to Grinzeig, stating he wouldn't have agreed to the interview if he had known Grinzeig was the interviewer. When asked why, Ben-Gvir alluded to their "past," implying he could reveal damaging information about Grinzeig. Grinzeig insisted the minister should proceed, saying, "Yes, tell, publish." Ben-Gvir reiterated his threat, and Grinzeig responded, "I want you to embarrass me on the air."

Ben-Gvir further claimed a "small group of journalists" have an agenda against him. Grinzeig demanded clarification, and when Ben-Gvir suggested he knew why Grinzeig hated him, the journalist insisted he was asking a simple question.

Following the interview, Grinzeig responded to allegations Ben-Gvir had made against Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, accusing her of blackmailing Police Commissioner Dany Levy over alleged building violations at his home. Grinzeig counter-accused Ben-Gvir, stating the minister knew about the issue and used it as leverage against the Police Commissioner, warning him "if you want me to blow up the issue that Aryeh Doron and the officer who were the construction supervisors for your house, be careful."