Netanyahu defends far-right security minister in court filing

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has filed a response with Israel’s Supreme Court defending his appointment of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, insisting there are no grounds for his dismissal. The filing came in response to petitions calling for Ben Gvir’s removal from office.

Netanyahu argued that the appointment was made lawfully and rejected suggestions that the minister should step down. He characterised any allegations of wrongdoing by Ben Gvir as minor infractions, dismissing them as insignificant. The Prime Minister’s defence marks a significant moment in the ongoing legal challenge to one of his government’s most controversial appointments.

Ben Gvir, who leads the far-right Otzlo Yehudit party, has been a lightning rod for controversy both in Israel and internationally since taking office. The Supreme Court petition against him represents an attempt to use legal channels to challenge Netanyahu’s coalition arrangement with the hardline minister.

The Prime Minister insisted the appointment was made lawfully and there are no grounds for dismissal.

What this means for UK readers: Ben Gvir’s role as security minister has drawn international criticism, including from UK officials concerned about his influence on Israeli policy towards Palestinians.

Sources: Ynet, Walla News — Original articles in Hebrew.