Baruch Marzel Criticizes Itamar Ben-Gvir for Supporting Amir Ohana Amid Right-Wing Tensions

Right-wing activist Baruch Marzel sharply criticized National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir on Tuesday, accusing him of abandoning their previous shared stance by supporting Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana. Marzel expressed surprise that Ben-Gvir, who had previously organized protests with him against pride parades, now backs Ohana, a prominent figure associated with such events. This criticism sparked backlash from many right-wing activists who accused Marzel of sowing division and urged him to retract his statements.

In response, Marzel issued a clarification stating his opposition to Ohana was not due to Ohana's sexual orientation, nor did he oppose other candidates who do not observe the Sabbath. He emphasized his general stance against coercion and in favor of personal freedom but condemned Ohana's participation in pride parades, which Marzel views as symbols of progressivism and desecration, especially when held in Jerusalem. Marzel also noted that he had refrained from speaking out before the primaries to avoid harming Ohana but could not support him given these issues. He recalled Ben-Gvir's own past condemnation of pride parades as "abomination."