The Controversial Comeback of Itamar Ben-Gvir: A Hardliner’s Impact on Israel’s Politics
Itamar Ben-Gvir, a far-right Israeli politician, has made headlines once again by rejoining Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet. Known for his extremist views and controversial actions, Ben-Gvir’s return has sparked both national and international debate. But who is Itamar Ben-Gvir, and why does his presence in the government matter?
Who Is Itamar Ben-Gvir?
Born in 1976 to a Mizrahi Jewish family, Ben-Gvir has long been a polarizing figure in Israeli politics. His mother, originally from Iraqi Kurdistan, was a member of the Irgun Zvai Leumi, a Jewish militia that fought British rule in Palestine.
Ben-Gvir’s political journey began in his youth when he joined the ultra-nationalist Moledet party and later served as a youth coordinator for the Kach movement, led by the late far-right rabbi Meir Kahane.
A History of Extremism
Ben-Gvir’s political roots are deeply tied to the ideology of Meir Kahane, whose party was banned from Israel’s parliament and designated a terrorist organization by the US.
Over the years, Ben-Gvir has been convicted eight times for offenses, including racism and supporting a terrorist organization. His extreme views even led to his exclusion from Israel’s compulsory military service.
Also Read: Turkey’s Democracy on Edge: Istanbul Mayor Arrested Ahead of 2025 Elections
Why Ben-Gvir Opposed the Ceasefire Deal
In January 2025, Ben-Gvir left Netanyahu’s cabinet because he disagreed with a ceasefire deal in Gaza. He said the deal would make Israel release many Palestinian prisoners and pull back its troops from Gaza’s border with Egypt. Ben-Gvir thought this would let Hamas stay in power in Gaza, which he believed would hurt Israel’s progress.
International Outrage and Controversial Actions
Ben-Gvir’s actions have often caused problems. He has visited the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem many times, a place that is very important to Muslims. He has called for Jewish prayer rights there, which has upset many people around the world.
In 2022, during the Israeli election, he was seen holding a gun at Palestinian protesters in East Jerusalem, which made him even more well-known as a tough leader.
Ben-Gvir’s Return to the Cabinet
Two months after he left, Ben-Gvir came back to Netanyahu’s government. This happened just as new airstrikes started in Gaza, ending a period of peace. Ben-Gvir has always pushed for stronger military action in Gaza, even though many Palestinians have died.
Itamar Ben-Gvir’s return to Netanyahu’s cabinet shows the ongoing tension in Israeli politics and the conflict with the Palestinians. His strong views and actions get both support and criticism, making him an important person to watch in the region’s unstable political scene.
Also Read: Netanyahu’s Stark Warning to Hamas: ‘This Is Just the Start’ as Gaza Death Toll Rises
