Itamar Ben-Gvir

Itamar Ben-Gvir is an Israeli lawyer and lawmaker who is the head of the far-right Otzma Yehudit Party. He currently serves as the country's national security minister. 

Though born in Mevaseret Zion near Jerusalem, Ben-Gvir now resides as a settler in Hebron in the West Bank and has made several controversial trips to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. He has faced numerous charges of hate speech and was convicted of supporting the terrorist group Kach, the party founded by extremist Rabbi Meir Kahane. He remains an incredibly divisive figure in Israeli politics to this day.

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JFNA executive's Gaza comments spark controversy amid rising tensions over US politics

JFNA executive's Gaza remarks cause concern about nonpartisanship and spark debate within the Jewish community.

By RON KAMPEAS/JTA
19/11/2024

Ben-Gvir, Smotrich call on Netanyahu to fire attorney general

Ben-Gvir alleges she ordered police to "find something against" him in weapons probe; AG office calls claims "completely false."

A-G to Netanyahu: Reconsider Ben-Gvir's position as national security minister

The A-G's statement comes after she represented Netanyahu against initial petitions against the hiring of Ben-Gvir.

(L-R) National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich

Biden should sanction Ben-Gvir, Smotrich before leaving office, Democrats say

Nearly 90 Democratic lawmakers urge Biden to sanction Israeli ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir for promoting settler violence and destabilizing the West Bank.

National Security Ministry, ILA approves demolition of mosque, homes in unrecognized Bedouin town

The statement noted that, under Ben-Gvir's policy, the issuance of demolition orders has increased 400% since the beginning of 2024.

Controversial 'Rabbis Law' returns to Knesset plenum

Proponents of the bill have argued that its goal is to improve religious services in municipalities or authorities where they are lacking.

Israelis take to the streets in Tel Aviv following Yoav Gallant's firing, November 5, 2024

'Take to the streets': Opposition calls for mass protests after Gallant's firing

Head of The Democrats party, Yair Golan, called for protests, saying, "Take to the streets."

Knesset approves Israel's 2025 budget despite threats of opposition

The national budget for 2025 will be around NIS 607.4 billion. The government has also approved budget adjustments totaling about NIS 37 billion.

01/11/2024

Ben-Gvir threatens AG on 'The Patriots'

Ben-Gvir threatens ultimatum over police legal adviser row, says he'll demand AG's dismissal

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