Ben Gvir Claims Five Countries Offer to Accept 100,000 Gazans
Itamar Ben Gvir, the National Security Minister and chairman of the Otzma Yehudit party, revealed on Sunday that five countries have offered to accept 100,000 residents from the Gaza Strip in exchange for financial compensation. This proposal, according to Ben Gvir, is still under consideration and has not been dismissed by the United States.
During an election conference held in Jerusalem, Ben Gvir highlighted his intention to promote emigration from Gaza as a key policy following the elections. He stated, "There were five countries that told us: Bring us 100,000 Gazans. These countries offered: Give us money, give us Gazans."
Ben Gvir linked the success of his party in the upcoming elections to his ability to influence government policy, asserting that if Otzma Yehudit secures 15 seats in the Knesset, it would lead to emigration from Gaza. He also discussed the potential composition of the next government, suggesting that some senior figures within Likud are considering a partnership with former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot.
"We're hearing voices from Likud who want to put something together with Eisenkot. And we're hearing senior Likud officials saying it wouldn't be such a terrible thing to make Gadi Eisenkot defense minister," Ben Gvir claimed. He expressed concern that his exclusion from a conference aimed at uniting the right indicates Likud's intentions to form a government with Eisenkot.
Despite these speculations, Ben Gvir reaffirmed that his preferred candidate for prime minister remains Benjamin Netanyahu. He elaborated on his relationship with Netanyahu, acknowledging their disagreements but emphasizing the need for Otzma Yehudit to be part of the government to maintain a right-wing agenda.
Ben Gvir's Vision for Gaza and National Security
Ben Gvir praised Netanyahu for certain policies but also outlined his ambitions, which include dismantling the Palestinian Authority, settling the entire Gaza Strip, and encouraging emigration. He pointed to changes on the Temple Mount as a significant achievement, noting that Jews can now pray freely there, a practice that was previously restricted.
Addressing issues of nationalist crime in Judea and Samaria, Ben Gvir stated that while lawbreakers must face consequences, there should be a distinction between legitimate law enforcement and what he termed the persecution of entire communities. He emphasized the need for firm action against those who commit violence while protecting those who are settling in the region.
On the topic of haredi military enlistment, Ben Gvir criticized former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Yisrael Beytenu chairman Avigdor Liberman for their lack of success in this area. He claimed that during his tenure, over 1,000 haredi individuals joined the police force and that he established dedicated units to accommodate them. Ben Gvir expressed his commitment to applying the same approach to haredi enlistment in the IDF, promising to provide the necessary conditions for their service.
Final Assessment
As the elections approach, the dynamics within the Likud party and its potential collaboration with Eisenkot could significantly impact the political landscape. Ben Gvir's assertions about the offers from foreign countries and his party's electoral strategy highlight the ongoing discussions surrounding national security and immigration policies in Israel. His emphasis on maintaining a right-wing government reflects the broader ideological battles within Israeli politics as various factions vie for influence and power.
In summary, Ben Gvir's statements underscore the complexities of Israeli politics, particularly regarding national security and immigration. His focus on emigration from Gaza and the potential collaboration with Eisenkot illustrates the shifting alliances and strategies that could shape the future of the Israeli government. As the elections draw near, the implications of these discussions will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics alike.
