Israel’s Likud rejects Ben-Gvir’s demands for Defense and Justice ministries — Jerusalem Post
Israel’s Likud party has rejected the demand by Otzma Yehudit party leader and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to hand his political force the Defense Ministry in the next government, and the Justice Ministry to Knesset member Tally Gotliv. According to the Jerusalem Post, citing Maariv, Likud said it has no intention of relinquishing either of these ministries during future coalition negotiations.
Likud representatives called the Defense Ministry and the Justice Ministry key party portfolios. According to them, the demand to transfer both ministries to Otzma Yehudit is not considered realistic ahead of possible post-election negotiations.
Concerns over international reaction
Likud also expressed concern over the diplomatic consequences of Ben-Gvir’s statements. Party officials believe that nominating Ben-Gvir for the post of defense minister could trigger a sharp reaction from neighboring Arab states, including Egypt and Jordan, and further heighten tensions in relations with them.
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The demands by Ben-Gvir and Gotliv were voiced at a press conference where they presented plans they want to advance in the next government. Ben-Gvir said that Otzma Yehudit would seek control of the Defense Ministry.
Plans for the army and judicial system
Among the changes proposed by Ben-Gvir are a review of the Israel Defense Forces’ rules on the use of force, broader support for military personnel, higher salaries, and free land for service members in combat units. He also wants to change the army’s ethical code and the selection process for elite units, including expanding access to Unit 8200 for candidates from different population groups.
Gotliv said that if appointed justice minister, she would seek the immediate dismissal of the attorney general after the formation of a new government. Her plan also includes changing the procedure for appointing Supreme Court judges, reviewing the powers of the High Court of Justice, and abolishing a course used to select candidates for judicial positions. In addition, she wants to abolish the requirement for prior approval by the State Attorney’s Office to open criminal investigations into incitement, sedition, and calls for disobedience.
