Baruch Marzel's Past Handshake With Amir Ohana Surfaces Amid Criticism of Itamar Ben Gvir

Baruch Marzel, a far-right Israeli activist, has come under scrutiny after a video surfaced showing him shaking hands with Amir Ohana, the Speaker of the Knesset, from around the March 2021 elections for the 24th Knesset. The footage was shared by Haredi journalist Menachem Koldetsky following Marzel's sharp criticism of Itamar Ben Gvir, the Minister of National Security, for supporting Ohana despite Ohana's sexual orientation.

Marzel condemned Ben Gvir for backing Ohana, highlighting it as a sign of Ben Gvir's ideological shift. He recalled their joint efforts organizing protests against LGBTQ+ pride parades but noted Ben Gvir's current support for Ohana contradicts that stance. Marzel also criticized Ben Gvir's cooperation with the Ra'am party and the Islamic Movement, suggesting these moves represent a departure from his original path.

In response to Marzel's attack, Koldetsky posted the video of Marzel shaking Ohana's hand, emphasizing the contradiction with the phrase "cleanse yourself first." This exchange has drawn public attention due to the apparent inconsistency between Marzel's past actions and his recent rhetoric against Ben Gvir.

The incident highlights tensions within the far-right political camp in Israel, especially regarding alliances and attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues and cooperation with Arab parties. The video from 2021 has resurfaced amid ongoing political debates and personal attacks among right-wing figures.