Itamar Ben Gvir Outlines Defense Minister Ambitions Ahead of Knesset Elections
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir clashed with interviewers in Israeli media, discussing his political future, the upcoming elections, and his ambition to become Defense Minister.
National Security Minister and Otzma Yehudit leader Itamar Ben Gvir appeared in Israeli media’s program hosted by Eyal Berkovic and Moriah Asraf, three days ahead of the 26th Knesset elections. During the interview, he clashed with the presenters over his past, his ministerial performance, and his political ambitions. One of the lighter moments occurred when the hosts showed him photographs from his youth, asking if he felt any embarrassment.
"It is good you did not bring me pictures from kindergarten. How old was I then, 14? Is there anyone else whose pictures from age 14 you brought?" Ben Gvir retorted. He attempted to pivot the discussion toward Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid, raising an allegation regarding past drug use. When questioned about whether he or Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was more popular among Beitar Jerusalem fans at Teddy Stadium, Ben Gvir remarked that "trends change."
Ben Gvir further claimed that Netanyahu does not intend to include him in the next coalition. "He does not want me because he wants to form a government with Eisenkot," he stated. When asked if Netanyahu fears him, he replied that many people are wary of his growing popularity. Netanyahu previously stated that the Likud party intends to retain the defense and national security portfolios, while Otzma Yehudit accused the prime minister of plotting to exclude Ben Gvir in favor of Gadi Eisenkot.
Addressing the October 7 failure and the absence of a state commission of inquiry, Ben Gvir placed the blame on the judicial system and Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara. He asserted that the police under his tenure performed exceptionally well and argued that the judiciary's conduct must also be investigated. Listing his achievements, Ben Gvir claimed a reduction in terror attacks, the creation of a specialized anti-extortion unit, and a doubling of indictments.
Looking toward the future, Ben Gvir declared his ambition to expand his influence across the security apparatus. "What I did in the police, I want to do in the army. Yes, I want to be the Defense Minister," he stated. Responding to concerns regarding potential escalation, he defended his policies on the Temple Mount and emphasized his support for Arab police officers serving within the force.
