Amichai Segal Criticizes Netanyahu Over Rift With Otzma Yehudit Leader Itamar Ben-Gvir

Political commentator Amichai Segal addressed the recent conflict between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Itamar Ben-Gvir, leader of the Otzma Yehudit party, following Ben-Gvir's refusal to meet with Netanyahu about a joint electoral run with Bezalel Smotrich. Segal highlighted the dramatic shift in their relationship by comparing the 2022 election, when Netanyahu refused to be photographed with Ben-Gvir, to 2026, when Ben-Gvir now refuses to meet Netanyahu. Segal interpreted Ben-Gvir's refusal as indicative of a broader problem within the right-wing bloc and criticized Netanyahu, stating, "If Netanyahu does not understand he has a severe problem in the bloc, he is not seeing reality."

The dispute follows Netanyahu's invitation to Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionist party, for meetings scheduled on Sunday. Netanyahu urged them to unite ahead of the elections, emphasizing, "No vote can be wasted; we must unite to save the right-wing bloc." However, Otzma Yehudit rejected the proposal, declaring their decision against a joint run with Religious Zionism as final and absolute, refusing any meetings or negotiations on the matter, directly or indirectly.

Otzma Yehudit offered Netanyahu two alternatives: either a unification of all small right-wing parties or the use of reserved spots Netanyahu received within Likud for Smotrich. The party argued these options are the realistic and proper ways to prevent vote loss and ensure the formation of a right-wing government.