Ben-Gvir to 'Post': Netanyahu should stand with me rather than Eisenkot -interview

Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed strong disapproval of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's potential collaboration with Yesh Atid party leader Gadi Eisenkot, warning that such a government would "harm Israel." The comments came as tensions grew between Netanyahu and Ben-Gvir over the makeup of the next government.Ben-Gvir claimed that Netanyahu had promised European officials he would be excluded from the next coalition, an allegation Netanyahu's Likud party denied.

Netanyahu has also ruled out giving Ben-Gvir the Defense Ministry, a position the minister has sought.Ben-Gvir's far-right Otzma Yehudit party is a key member of Netanyahu's coalition, with recent polls projecting the party to win around eight seats in the upcoming Knesset elections. Ben-Gvir called for a right-wing government, stating that the nation's interests would be better served by such an administration.The national security minister expressed confidence that another right-wing government could be formed, citing voter turnout on election day as a means to secure a Knesset majority.

Despite the tensions with Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir stated that he wanted the prime minister to remain in his position after the elections.Ben-Gvir also emphasized that he desired Netanyahu to "stand with" him, rather than pursue a partnership with Eisenkot. He criticized other opposition bloc leaders, such as former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, stating that such partnerships would harm the country.Ben-Gvir, known for his extreme views, has been criticized for rhetoric seen as contributing to Israel's negative international image.

He also faced criticism over rising crime rates, particularly in Arab neighborhoods, during his time in government.