Firing Ben-Gvir on day one would be ‘deranged’, says Eisenkot’s party colleague

Matan Kahana, a member of Benny Gantz’s National Unity party, has defended the potential coalition’s ability to manage far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, dismissing concerns among voters about his influence on government policy. Speaking at a Jerusalem gathering, Kahana suggested that any coalition government including his party would be capable of “reining in Yair Golan” — an apparent reference to hard-line positions within the security establishment.

Kahana sought to downplay concerns about settler violence in the West Bank, characterising incidents as isolated cases rather than a systemic problem. He dismissed terminology commonly used to describe such violence, saying: “It’s a handful of cases. The term ‘settler violence’ — that’s just bad PR.” His remarks suggest an attempt to normalise security challenges that have drawn international criticism and concern from Palestinians and human rights organisations.

The politician also reassured listeners that the government would maintain institutional continuity, stating: “We won’t cancel government appointments. What has received the Supreme Court’s stamp of approval is kosher.” This pledge appears aimed at addressing concerns that a right-wing coalition might attempt to dismantle previous administrative decisions or remove officials appointed under previous administrations.

Kahana’s comments reflect ongoing tensions within Israel’s potential governing coalitions over how to balance the demands of far-right coalition partners with broader governance concerns. His insistence that Ben-Gvir could be managed contrasts with criticism from left-wing and centrist parties, which have raised alarms about his appointment and influence over security matters.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.