National Security Minister Ben Gvir Defends Handling of Haredi Protests and Urges Support from Disappointed Haredi Voters

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir appeared in a heated interview with Yishai Cohen on Kikar HaShabbat amid rising tensions with ultra-Orthodox party leaders. Ben Gvir accused Aryeh Deri and Yaakov Litzman of conducting a political campaign against him, particularly over his handling of police violence during Haredi protests. He claimed the Attorney General seeks to remove him due to his efforts to prevent discrimination against the Haredi public.

On the contentious issue of Haredi conscription, Ben Gvir took a firm stance: those studying Torah should continue, while others should enlist "with an embrace, not by force." He openly called on disillusioned Haredi voters to support his Otzma Yehudit party, emphasizing that he would not ally with new Haredi factions and respects those who continue voting for traditional Haredi parties.

Ben Gvir also addressed security concerns on Israel’s northern border, advocating for intensified strikes against Beirut in response to threats against soldiers. Regarding the upcoming Likud primaries, he revealed that several Knesset members and ministers have asked to be placed on his party list, reflecting Otzma Yehudit’s growing influence. He confirmed he will run separately from Bezalel Smotrich, citing internal polling that suggested a joint list could alienate voters.

Responding to criticism from Haredi leaders about police actions during protests, Ben Gvir dismissed their accusations as politically motivated. He defended Kobi Yakobi, the Prison Service Commissioner facing indictment, calling for his continued service until proven guilty. On the recent discovery of a missing mother and daughter in Argentina, Ben Gvir praised the police’s efforts and stressed the importance of thorough investigations.

In summary, Ben Gvir positioned himself as a defender of the Haredi community against discrimination, a hardliner on security issues, and a rising political force seeking to expand beyond his current base while maintaining a distinct identity from other right-wing factions.