Netanyahu Invites Ben Gvir and Smotrich to Sunday Talks to Forge Right-Wing Unity

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly called for unity between Itamar Ben Gvir of Otzma Yehudit and Bezalel Smotrich of the Religious Zionist Party ahead of the upcoming elections. On Friday, Netanyahu tweeted an invitation to both leaders for meetings on Sunday to discuss forming a united right-wing list, emphasizing the need to overcome personal differences for the sake of electoral success. Netanyahu had initiated the call for unity with a video urging Ben Gvir and Smotrich to join forces, citing past victories when the right-wing was united and losses when divided.

Ben Gvir responded with a video and tweets rejecting Netanyahu's proposal, accusing him of wanting a diminished Otzma Yehudit to facilitate a broad national government with Benny Gantz. He argued that only a strong Otzma Yehudit combined with Smotrich and Simcha Rothman could form a fully right-wing government. Ben Gvir also cited polls suggesting that a joint list with Smotrich would cost Otzma Yehudit 3-4 Knesset seats and jeopardize the right-wing government’s stability.

Following this exchange, Otzma Yehudit issued a statement declaring that it will not run jointly with the Religious Zionist Party in the upcoming Knesset elections, calling the decision final and irrevocable. Netanyahu criticized Ben Gvir for risking the right-wing bloc over personal ambitions and reiterated his commitment to pursuing unity, which he said the public expects.

The political tension highlights the challenges within the Israeli right-wing camp as the September elections approach, with Netanyahu seeking to consolidate support to maintain his coalition majority. The upcoming Sunday meetings will be closely watched for any breakthrough or further division.