Israel’s Ben-Gvir poised for election gains as young voters turn to far right

Israeli far-right politician Itamar Ben-Gvir is gaining traction in Tel Aviv, a city historically known for its liberal values. Known for his provocative statements and policies, Ben-Gvir has become the face of the far-right in Israel. Despite being in power for over four years as the Police Minister under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir has managed to expand his support base among younger, urban voters, with recent polls indicating over a third of his party's supporters are first-time voters.

Notable among these supporters is Gavriel Marmon, an 18-year-old student from Beit Shemesh. He credits Ben-Gvir's support for a law that designates hanging as the default punishment for Palestinians convicted of attacks on Israelis. Ben-Gvir's controversial policies, including the expansion of permit requirements for Israelis to carry guns, have also resonated with many, including Odelia Kedmi, who sees them as a form of "Jewish strength."

Ben-Gvir's rise is particularly significant in light of the recent Hamas-led attacks on Israel. While many Israelis have blamed the failure of the Netanyahu government for the deadliest attacks in the country's history, the election set for October 27th could see a significant shift towards the far-right. Polls suggest that even major opposition parties may not secure a majority, potentially paving the way for Ben-Gvir's Jewish Power party to win eight or more seats, an achievement that would make it comparable to the former Labour Party.

Critics argue that Ben-Gvir's stance on issues such as the treatment of Palestinians in prisons and his calls for the conquest of Gaza fuel further division in Israeli society. These views have not gone unnoticed internationally, with Ben-Gvir and others facing sanctions from several countries. Despite such criticism, Ben-Gvir's supporters remain undeterred, viewing these actions as necessary steps towards Israeli dominance and pride.