The Ben-Gvir effect exposes the West’s discomfort with Jewish power - opinion
The Ben-Gvir effect has brought front stage a long-muted Jewish nationalism, attracting intense animosity but also discreet curiosity from Western leaders seeking strategies against radical Islamism.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has become a political lightning rod, drawing intense criticism both domestically and internationally. While his positions on matters such as the death penalty for terrorists, voluntary emigration of Gazans, expansion of Jewish settlements, and opposition to Palestinian statehood may seem problematic, these stances are backed by a long-standing ideology.
The issue, however, goes beyond his political program. Ben-Gvir's manner, characterized by theatrical provocations, confrontational language, and social media stunts, has also become a target. From suggesting a moat of crocodiles around a prison holding Hamas terrorists to publicly humiliating Gaza flotilla terror supporters, his approach has far-reaching consequences.
His unapologetic Jewish pride and rejection of political correctness have led to a phenomenon that goes beyond standard debates on extremism, known as the "Ben-Gvir effect." This effect exposes the West's discomfort with Jewish power and sovereignty, a deep-rooted anxiety that Western culture has long sought to suppress.
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