Far-right leader Ben-Gvir labels Israel laughingstock in Middle East

In an interview with Israeli radio, Itamar Ben-Gvir, leader of the far-right Jewish Power Party and former Israeli National Security Minister, expressed that Israel had become a laughingstock in the Middle East.

He questioned whether the government truly understood this reality. Ben-Gvir also resigned from his post, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of Israel’s policies in the region.

Details

• Ben-Gvir’s criticism: Ben-Gvir shared his dissatisfaction with Israel’s approach under Netanyahu, expressing doubt that the government fully grasped the situation. He described Israel’s reputation in the Middle East as severely damaged.
• Resignation trigger: His resignation came after Netanyahu approved of a cease-fire agreement with Hamas and a prisoner exchange deal, actions Ben-Gvir strongly opposed. He claimed that had he stayed in the government, he could have made a significant difference.
• US pressure: Ben-Gvir slammed Netanyahu’s response to U.S. pressure, stating that the Prime Minister needed to be more honest and stop “telling stories.”
• Aid to Gaza: He also argued that Israel should not allow fuel and humanitarian aid into Gaza, claiming that these resources end up in the hands of Hamas.

Bigger picture

• Voluntary immigration ministry: Ben-Gvir proposed the creation of a new Israeli government ministry aimed at encouraging Palestinians in Gaza to voluntarily relocate. He stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that there was no time for Israel’s state.
• New bill: Ben-Gvir’s Otzma Yehudit party introduced a bill in the Israeli Knesset to financially incentivize Palestinians to leave Gaza. The bill would offer financial support to those willing to migrate but exclude anyone with a history of terrorist involvement.
• Trump’s support: Former U.S. President Donald Trump voiced his support for resettling Palestinians from Gaza, suggesting they could be relocated to neighboring countries like Egypt or Jordan. His comments have sparked widespread condemnation in the Arab world and beyond, with many officials rejecting his plan.