Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir recently sat down for an interview with a Western news outlet for the first time since his Election to the Israeli government in 2022. In the interview with Dov Leiber of The Wall Street Journal, Ben-Gvir criticized US President Joe Biden, stating that if former President Trump were in power, the US would act differently.
The profile shed light on the political influence Ben-Gvir has gained since being integrated into the mainstream during Netanyahu’s campaign to return to Balfour Street following his ousting in 2021. Ben-Gvir, who has a history of far-right political activism and was convicted of incitement to racism in 2007, has been associated with controversial figures like the late Jewish terrorist Baruch Goldstein and extremist rabbi Meir Kahane.
The article also highlighted Ben-Gvir’s rejection of a potential hostage deal involving the release of Palestinian prisoners, and the growing influence he holds in political debates, with even Prime Minister Netanyahu needing his support.
Ben-Gvir’s advocacy for a return to Jewish settlement in Gaza, as well as his support for the encouragement of “voluntary” resettlement by Palestinians outside the Strip, has sparked controversy and raised concerns among opposition officials and media outlets.
The article recognized the opposition’s concern about Ben-Gvir’s public statements, which they believe hinder efforts to bring hostages home and complicate the challenges of Gaza’s future. A Maariv poll revealed that Netanyahu’s support had increased slightly, but he and his government remain behind the opposition.
The featured photos and profiles indicate that Ben-Gvir’s rise to the National Security Minister position could significantly impact Israeli Politics. His controversial statements and political affiliations have drawn attention and elicited polarized reactions throughout Israel and foreign media outlets.
Historically, Ben-Gvir’s association with extremist figures like Baruch Goldstein and Meir Kahane, as well as his far-right political activism, have positioned him as a divisive figure within Israeli politics. His recent statements and actions have escalated concerns about the potential impact of his influence on government decisions and policies.
In conclusion, Ben-Gvir’s emergence into mainstream Israeli politics as the National Security Minister has sparked heated debates and raised concerns about the future direction of the Israeli government. His controversial history and statements have positioned him as a polarizing figure within the country’s political landscape, and his growing influence has the potential to significantly impact key decisions and outcomes in the near future.
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