Cohen Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Budget Night Drama After Ben Gvir Attack

Ahead of Likud primary elections, MK Almog Cohen has dismissed claims made by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, insisting he did not receive favours from the controversial politician. In comments to fellow Likud figures Ariel Segall and Eil Barkovitz, Cohen referenced a crucial night of budget negotiations, suggesting his role was far more significant than Ben Gvir has portrayed.

Cohen’s statement centres on events surrounding a critical government budget vote. According to his account, the government faced genuine collapse that night, and Cohen claims he was instrumental in preventing this — describing himself as “the 61st finger” — a Hebrew expression suggesting he provided the deciding vote or crucial support needed to keep the administration intact.

The dispute between Cohen and Ben Gvir appears to stem from disagreements over who deserves credit for political outcomes during tense coalition negotiations. Ben Gvir had apparently suggested that Cohen owed him a debt of gratitude for past assistance, a characterisation Cohen now firmly rejects. By invoking the budget night episode, Cohen is attempting to reframe the political dynamics and assert his own importance within the coalition.

The exchange comes as Likud members prepare for internal party elections, a period when such disputes often become more public as politicians vie for position and prestige within their faction. Cohen’s willingness to speak publicly about behind-the-scenes government drama suggests heightened tensions within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition as various factions compete for influence and credit.

Source: Maariv — Original article in Hebrew.