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

In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's reported desire to form a unity government with Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot, warning it would harm Israel. Ben-Gvir called for a full right-wing government and expressed confidence in forming one with high voter turnout. He reiterated his desire to become defense minister, claiming he could dismantle the Palestinian Authority and change IDF rules of engagement. Ben-Gvir defended his qualifications by citing his warnings about Hamas before October 7, saying he was right and senior generals were wrong.

In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's reported desire to form a unity government with Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot, warning that such a coalition would 'harm Israel.' Ben-Gvir called for a full right-wing government, expressing confidence that high voter turnout could secure a Knesset majority for Netanyahu's bloc. He reiterated his desire to become defense minister, claiming he could dismantle the Palestinian Authority, encourage emigration, and change IDF rules of engagement. Ben-Gvir defended his qualifications by citing his warnings about Hamas before October 7, stating he was right and senior generals were wrong. The interview was conducted on October 21, 2026, ahead of the October 27 elections. The article notes Ben-Gvir's controversial rhetoric but does not include responses from Netanyahu or Eisenkot.