Itamar Ben-Gvir Ranks Fourth in Weekly 'Most Annoying Religious Politician' Summer Poll

The Israeli news site Srugim has released its weekly summer ranking of the "Most Annoying Religious Politician of 5784," placing Itamar Ben-Gvir, the Minister and leader of Otzma Yehudit, in fourth place. The ranking, presented with a satirical tone, highlights Ben-Gvir's contentious political behavior, including his refusal to run alongside Bezalel Smotrich, which reportedly irritated Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Judges also noted his prolonged tenure in office, which frustrated Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara due to failed negotiations, and his frequent objections to agreements proposed by others. Despite these provocations, the commentary suggests Ben-Gvir has recently tried to act with greater statesmanship, avoiding excessive daily provocations, which kept him out of the top three most annoying politicians this summer.

The satirical video accompanying the ranking emphasizes that Ben-Gvir’s fourth-place position is a safe spot, avoiding potential legal claims from him for defamation, while still allowing the site to criticize left-wing opponents who insult him behind his back. The segment is delivered humorously without intent to offend, and "The Red Point" feature appears daily on Srugim with new topics of interest to religious Zionist audiences.