In a U-turn of his previous position, opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu says far-right MK Itamar Ben Gvir “certainly can” be a minister in his cabinet if he forms a government after the election.
In 2021 ahead of the previous election, Netanyahu said Ben Gvir was “not fit” to be in the cabinet,” because “his positions are not mine,” though he acknowledged then that he would be part of the coalition he hoped to form.
Speaking now at a conference organized by Channel 14, Netanyahu is asked directly whether Ben Gvir can serve as a minister. He “certainly can,” the former prime minister answers, adding that “anyone” elected from Religious Zionism can be a minister and that “this is entirely obvious.”
Asked about Religious Zionism chief Bezalel Smotrich’s statements that the party will demand top ministries in a future government including defense and finance, Netanyahu says: “I certainly understand [his assertions] but I’m sorry to say that will not happen. Or rather I’m not sorry, I’m happy to say that will not happen.”
He says Likud needs to win a large number of seats “to be able to govern.” This will enable to the party to clearly set the policy agenda, he says.
“Let it be clear,” he goes on. “Everyone will be full and respected partners in the government but central portfolios such as defense, foreign affairs and finance — these portfolios need to be held by Likud.”
Responsibly covering this tumultuous time
As The Times of Israel’s political correspondent, I spend my days in the Knesset trenches, speaking with politicians and advisers to understand their plans, goals and motivations.
I'm proud of our coverage of this government's plans to overhaul the judiciary, including the political and social discontent that underpins the proposed changes and the intense public backlash against the shakeup.
Your support through The Times of Israel Community helps us continue to keep readers across the world properly informed during this tumultuous time. Have you appreciated our coverage in past months? If so, please join the ToI Community today.
~ Carrie Keller-Lynn, Political Correspondent
Yes, I'll join
Yes, I'll join
Already a member? Sign in to stop seeing this
You're a dedicated reader
We’re really pleased that you’ve read X Times of Israel articles in the past month.
That’s why we started the Times of Israel eleven years ago - to provide discerning readers like you with must-read coverage of Israel and the Jewish world.
So now we have a request. Unlike other news outlets, we haven’t put up a paywall. But as the journalism we do is costly, we invite readers for whom The Times of Israel has become important to help support our work by joining The Times of Israel Community.
For as little as $6 a month you can help support our quality journalism while enjoying The Times of Israel AD-FREE, as well as accessing exclusive content available only to Times of Israel Community members.
Thank you,
David Horovitz, Founding Editor of The Times of Israel
Join Our Community
Join Our Community
Already a member? Sign in to stop seeing this