Itamar Ben Gvir Criticizes Netanyahu’s Unity Government Plans and Attorney General, Calls for Judicial Reform

Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir spoke on 103fm radio on Sunday, addressing current political and security issues. He criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent calls for a unity government, warning that such a coalition would hinder judicial reforms and prevent the dismissal of the Attorney General. Ben Gvir urged Netanyahu to align with his right-wing partners rather than figures like Benny Gantz and Gadi Eizenkot, fearing that Netanyahu might abandon the judicial reform agenda if he chooses the latter.

Ben Gvir highlighted achievements under his tenure and expressed concern that without his faction, key operations such as the maneuver in Iran and actions against Hezbollah would not have occurred. He emphasized his hope for a full right-wing government and urged Netanyahu not to dismantle the right-wing bloc. He also recalled requesting Netanyahu early in the Knesset term to fire Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai, a request Netanyahu initially rejected. Ben Gvir vowed that in the next government, removing the Attorney General would be his top priority, accusing the current legal system of dictatorship and legislative obstruction.

Regarding recent attacks on businessman Barak Abramov’s restaurant chain, including grenade assaults, Ben Gvir confirmed he had contacted Abramov and defended his active engagement with citizens, contrasting himself with ministers he described as disconnected. He expressed disappointment with Police Commissioner Danny Levi, stating he expects more despite acknowledging Levi’s successes in reducing crime in the Jewish sector and the Negev.

Ben Gvir also criticized the Attorney General’s role in restricting police investigations, particularly regarding surveillance approvals and attempts to introduce bribery charges. He accused her of enabling political persecution, especially against ministers and the prime minister, vowing not to allow her to pursue what he called politically motivated cases or frame politicians.