Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir Calls Trump Naive on Iran and Criticizes Israeli Leadership

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir described U.S. President Donald Trump as naive regarding Iran during the Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth National Security Conference in cooperation with the INSS on Monday. Ben-Gvir criticized diplomatic efforts with Iran, stating that negotiations are futile and that "with the Iranians, you need to speak through the sights." He characterized Trump as a businessman who is very naive on the Iranian issue.

Ben-Gvir also addressed accusations that his actions have caused a global public relations setback, blaming former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett for legitimizing the Muslim Brotherhood party in Israel, which he said is considered extremist and outlawed in parts of the Arab world. He acknowledged mistakes by Benjamin Netanyahu but emphasized Bennett's role in empowering that party.

Reflecting on nearly three years since the October 7 massacre and Hamas's continued control over Gaza, Ben-Gvir criticized the inclusion of the Peace Council in Gaza and called for crushing Hamas, noting that Israel currently controls 63% of Gaza's territory. He said, "We killed 40,000 Hamas members, but it’s not enough," and advocated for encouraging emigration from Gaza. He envisioned Gaza neighborhoods populated by Israeli police, soldiers, and officers to prevent Hamas's return.

Regarding the October 7 attack, Ben-Gvir claimed his police force was the most effective before the massacre and suggested that had his recommendations been heeded, the attack might have been prevented. He expressed support for a state inquiry into the attack but insisted it also investigate judges who approved the disengagement plan, which he blamed for empowering terrorism.

Ben-Gvir also accused Palestinian prisoner Marwan Barghouti of attempting to influence Israeli elections by urging Arab parties to unite to restore favorable prison conditions for terrorists. On Iran, he praised Netanyahu's achievements but called the regime "Nazi" and urged stronger actions against it, hoping Trump would abandon his perceived naivety.

The conference was broadcast live by Ynet, where Ben-Gvir elaborated on his views about Israeli security, political responsibility, and the ongoing conflict with Hamas and Iran.