Full Breakdown
Tensions Rise Between Israel’s National Security Minister and Prime Minister Ahead of Election
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Strained Relationship Before Election
The tension was highlighted during a Knesset plenum on March 19, 2025, where Ben-Gvir reiterated his grievances. He warned that after the upcoming election Netanyahu might form a broad coalition with Gadi Eisenkot, potentially excluding Ben-Gvir’s party Otzma Yehudit.
Background & Context
Ben-Gvir said his relationship with Netanyahu was “very good” for the past two years, noting that he helped build the government for four years and “learned a lot” from the prime minister, who is 27 years his senior. He recalled past cooperation, including long Friday meetings and personal birthday calls from Netanyahu. Ben-Gvir’s recent social-media videos appealed directly to the prime minister, expressing hurt over perceived boycotts and a lack of public photos together.
Official Statements & Responses
He affirmed his desire to remain in a Netanyahu-led government despite the personal tension, describing the prime minister as “the prime minister of Israel” whom he respects. Levin observed that Ben-Gvir’s accusations of being “boycotted” contrast with his continued willingness to support the coalition’s agenda.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Netanyahu, you don’t take pictures with me, you are boycotting me, it hurts me, I love you, I don’t deserve this, where is your respect?” — Itamar Ben-Gvir, national security minister
- “He went, left the National Union aside, and went with [former prime minister] Ehud Barak. In 2013, he did the same thing.” — Miki Levin
- “I have a problem with that approach. For four years, we entered the government and established a government thanks to the mandates. And in the past two and a half years especially, the relationship between us was very, very good.” — Miki Levin
Why It Matters
The dispute signals potential instability within the right-wing bloc ahead of the 2026 election. If Netanyahu excludes Otzma Yehudit, Ben-Gvir’s party could lose its influence over key judicial appointments and the legal adviser role, reshaping the coalition’s policy direction. The public airing of personal grievances also raises questions about intra-government cohesion as voters assess leadership unity.