Netanyahu Imposes Photo Ban on Ben Gvir to Win Back Moderate Voters

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly implemented a strict photo ban concerning National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir as the election campaign enters its final stretch. According to Ynet, the calculated strategy is designed to distance the Likud party from the radical wing of the coalition, aiming to recapture moderate right-wing voters who have shifted toward figures like Naftali Bennett, Avigdor Lieberman, and Gadi Eisenkot.

The rift became publicly apparent during recent Selichot prayers at the Western Wall, where Netanyahu's staff rejected Ben Gvir's request to join him on the balcony, citing a busy schedule. Ben Gvir later encountered Netanyahu by chance, noting the rejection, but received a cold evasion. This follows a similar incident in August, when Netanyahu refused to pose alongside Ben Gvir at an event commemorating the Altalena ship, requesting a separate video instead, prompting sharp criticism from the Otzma Yehudit leader.

Meanwhile, while the Prime Minister's Office maintains its distance, Ben Gvir continues to generate headlines on social media. A viral video from the wedding of Maccabi Haifa midfielder Eitan Azulai sparked widespread online reactions, showing the minister dancing alongside the footballer at the celebration.