National Security Minister and Otzma Yehudit chairman Itamar Ben Gvir says his party will not join forces with newly established Chareidi political parties ahead of the elections, insisting that his party has succeeded by running independently and has no reason to change course.
Speaking in an interview with Kikar HaShabbat, Ben Gvir specifically addressed the new Achi party associated with Rav Abergel and the HaTzibbur HaChareidi party headed by Leitner of Beit Shemesh, making clear that Otzma Yehudit intends to maintain its own independent slate.
“Yishai, as of now — and not only as of now, I see this consistently — for four years Otzma Yehudit has run alone, and the results are good, the results are impressive, and I think you don’t replace a winning horse,” Ben Gvir explained. “I respect everyone, I truly respect everyone, but ultimately, Otzma Yehudit is a brand. Otzma Yehudit is something that appeals to all of Klal Yisroel. People feel how much I care.”
At the same time, Ben Gvir stressed that he has no intention of deliberately undermining the established Chareidi parties or attempting to pull away their core voters.
“I certainly don’t want to poke a finger in the eye of the Chareidi parties — let that be clear!” Ben Gvir said. “But I am saying explicitly: Whoever is not voting for the Chareidi parties should vote for me.”
Ben Gvir said he believes there is currently significant dissatisfaction among portions of the Chareidi community with its traditional political parties and urged those voters to support Otzma Yehudit rather than cast ballots for smaller parties that may not cross the electoral threshold.
“There is currently a certain amount of disappointment in various parts of the Chareidi community,” Ben Gvir said. “Those who aren’t going to vote for Chareidi parties should come to me. They shouldn’t go and waste votes.”
However, Ben Gvir emphasized that he is not calling on loyal supporters of the established Chareidi parties to abandon them, despite disagreements he has had with their leadership.
“On the other hand,” Ben Gvir said, “whoever votes for the Chareidi parties should vote for the Chareidi parties. There are sometimes disagreements, including with Aryeh, certainly with Gafni, and with various others. But ultimately, whoever votes for the Chareidi parties should vote for them. Whoever doesn’t — should come to Otzma Yehudit.”
