Itamar Ben-Gvir has announced his intention to split his Jewish Power faction from Bezalel Smotrich’s Religious Zionism party. The official request will be handed to the Knesset sometime this coming week.
This comes during ongoing coalition negotiations between prime minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu and the right-wing parties. Talks have reportedly stalled due to Smotrich’s demand to be appointed the defense portfolio.
During Ben-Gvir’s announcement, he claimed that he spoke with Netanyahu and urged him to appoint Smotrich as defense minister.
Ben-Gvir said that Smotrich’s desire to be given the defense portfolio is “legitimate” and would help the incoming government fulfill its “fully right-wing” vision. This includes the establishment of new Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the halting of Palestinian construction in Area C.
The Jewish Power leader continued that he is still in the same bloc as Smotrich, calling on both the prime minister-designate and Smotrich to find a solution and form a right-wing government.
This comes amid reports that U.S. Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides hinted to Netanyahu that the Biden administration opposed the idea of the defense ministry portfolio being given to Smotrich.
Reports also indicate that Smotrich is refusing to back down from his demand, turning down an offer of the foreign affairs portfolio. –i24 News
he cut off from everything by walking r’l where he must not
good riddance
may there be no govt until Moshiach very soon
So in practical terms, what effect will this have?
Why does it matter if _Biden doesn’t like Stormitch?
Average government. More religious elements desired.
Biden should mind his own business. That is, if he has a mind altogether.