Ben Gvir rules out alliance with Smotrich: "I am losing the periphery and the youth"

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir ruled out the possibility of a joint run with Religious Zionism chairman Bezalel Smotrich in an interview with 103fm, arguing that an alliance would weaken the right-wing bloc. Ben Gvir called on Smotrich to join the new party of reserve Brigadier General Ofer Winter, and warned that a separate run by Winter could harm the bloc.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir ruled out the possibility of a joint run with Religious Zionism chairman Bezalel Smotrich in the 2026 elections during an interview with 103fm. According to Ben Gvir, an alliance between the two would weaken the right-wing bloc, as it would lead to a loss of voters from the periphery and young voters. He called on Smotrich to join the new party of reserve Brigadier General Ofer Winter, and warned that a separate run by Winter could harm the bloc. In the interview, Ben Gvir also addressed criticism of his appearance as a DJ at a Tel Aviv club, and defended his policy toward activists of flotillas to Gaza, claiming that a tough approach deterred additional flotillas. Additionally, he dismissed criticism of his performance in the area of personal security and claimed that he is implementing reforms not seen in 40 years.