Full Breakdown
Ben Gvir Accuses Netanyahu of Excluding Him from the Next Israeli Government
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, leader of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, announced that the Prime Minister’s Office had pledged several European Union governments that he would not be part of the cabinet after the October 27 election. He said the “clear message” warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that his political future depends on a strong right-wing coalition.
Background & Context
Ben Gvir has been a coalition partner since the 2023 war, serving as National Security Minister. He resigned in January 2025 over a Gaza cease-fire agreement, returned two months later, and has demanded the Defense Ministry for any future Netanyahu-led coalition. In September 2026 he also sought the Justice Ministry for party member Tally Gotliv.
Timeline
- September 4, 2026 – Press conference with MK Tally Gotliv, who joins Otzma Yehudit.
- October 11, 2026 – Speech at the “Game-Changing Generation” National Youth Conference in Jerusalem.
- October 27 – National election for the 120-member Knesset.
Official Statements & Responses
- Benjamin Netanyahu told Army Radio that the Defense and National Security ministries would remain under Likud’s control, adding, “I know he wants it, but he doesn’t decide.”
- Likud called Ben Gvir’s allegation “political spin,” saying the Prime Minister will include the current coalition’s core partners.
- Itamar Ben-Gvir said he had “verified and confirmed information” that the PMO pledged to EU countries to exclude him and expressed “deep sorrow” at the reports.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Ben Gvir’s claim of formal commitments to European governments has not been independently verified; no EU official has confirmed receiving such assurances. Likud’s denial offers no documentary evidence, leaving the factual status unresolved.
Data & Statistics
- Otzma Yehudit holds six Knesset seats and projects an increase to nine in the upcoming election, according to recent polling cited by JTA.
Why It Matters
Control of the Defense Ministry is pivotal for Otzma Yehudit’s agenda, which includes revising the IDF’s Code of Ethics. Excluding Ben Gvir could shift the balance of power in a fragmented Knesset where smaller parties often become kingmakers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I know he wants it, but he doesn’t decide,” — Benjamin Netanyahu, prime minister
- “I say these things with deep sorrow,” — Itamar Ben-Gvir, national security minister
- “Ben-Gvir continues with his false political spin and shooting from inside the armored personnel carrier,” — Likud, party statement
What’s Next
Netanyahu has pledged that the Defense, National Security and Education ministries will stay under Likud’s control if he forms the next government. Ben Gvir will continue to demand the Defense portfolio and the Justice Ministry for his party. The October 27 election will determine Otzma Yehudit’s role in the next cabinet.