Ben-Gvir Urges Supporters to Vote Amid High Arab Turnout

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has called on his party's supporters to vote, citing high turnout among Arab citizens. In a video address from Kafr Qasim, Ben-Gvir emphasized the need for his base to mobilize in response to the activity in Arab communities. He stated that the country's future depends on voter engagement and urged support for his "Otzma Yehudit" party. Ben-Gvir also expressed his belief that Israel must maintain its Jewish and Zionist character. He warned supporters against a scenario where Mansour Abbas, leader of the "Ra'am" party, and Ahmad Tibi, a representative of the "Joint List," gain influence. "Now everything depends on you," Ben-Gvir declared, urging a vote for "Otzma Yehudit."

Separately, sources close to former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly believe that a change in Israel's government composition is needed to advance Middle East diplomacy. This perspective suggests that a national unity government excluding Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich could be beneficial. American billionaire Bill Ackman, a Trump supporter with ties to his circle, is said to favor a more moderate Israeli coalition. Ackman believes such a government would strengthen Israel's international standing, improve relations with both major U.S. political parties, and expand the Abraham Accords. He reportedly supports Benjamin Netanyahu remaining Prime Minister but advocates for a coalition renewal, arguing that Ben-Gvir and Smotrich's presence hinders foreign policy initiatives.

Some U.S. administration officials reportedly feel that the current Israeli coalition impedes Trump's Middle East strategy, particularly the normalization of relations with Saudi Arabia.