Minister Ben-Gvir's Interview on i24 devolves into shouting match

An interview with Israel's Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on i24NEWS devolved into a loud confrontation between the minister and retired Superintendent Ephraim Erlich, known as "Kremshnit." The interview began with host Niv Gilboa suggesting Ben-Gvir would be in the opposition following the recent Knesset elections. Ben-Gvir responded with a smile, stating he was more concerned about the 19 Knesset seats held by "terror supporters" and referencing Arab MKs walking out during the national anthem.

Erlich repeatedly interrupted Ben-Gvir, eventually accusing the minister of causing harm to Israeli hostages through his policies regarding security prisoners. Erlich claimed that hostages reported worsened conditions due to Ben-Gvir's actions. Gilboa attempted to regain control, asking Erlich to pose a question instead of making accusations, but Erlich continued to interrupt.

As the argument escalated, Gilboa lost patience, calling Erlich "Kremshnit" and stating, "He's running wild here, I can't control him," eventually demanding, "Enough, we're done, take his microphone away!"

Ben-Gvir defended his record, highlighting his actions for police officers and the establishment of the National Guard, and told Erlich, "You know the police love me and it eats at your heart." He also stated, "I am proud that I made hell for them in the prisons," and argued that releasing terrorists invites further abductions. He asserted, "I cared for the hostages no less than you, they are my children."

This is not the first time Erlich has been involved in a heated on-air dispute; he previously clashed with mentalist Uri Geller during election night coverage. Despite the intense exchange, the interview ended on a lighter note, with Ben-Gvir inviting Gilboa to join him for a restaurant review, predicting it would break ratings.