Escalating Tensions Between Smotrich and Ben Gvir Threaten Israeli Government Stability

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich sharply criticized National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, accusing him of destabilizing the government and the state budget during a time of war for **"trivial political interests."** Smotrich emphasized the need to maintain coalition unity to work with President Trump and confront Iran.

According to **Channel 14**, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened to dismiss Ben Gvir if he refuses to vote in favor of the 2025 budget during its second and third readings. The conflict escalated after Ben Gvir declined an invitation from Netanyahu to hold talks in his Knesset office.

Channel 12** reported that Ben Gvir reiterated his intention to vote against the budget despite the risk of being dismissed, maintaining a defiant stance. Smotrich's party criticized Ben Gvir for engaging in **"childish politics,"** claiming his actions threaten to collapse the right-wing coalition before Trump’s return.

In a significant development, Ben Gvir’s party announced it would no longer adhere to coalition agreements, particularly regarding voting in Knesset sessions and supporting proposed legislation.

Source : Agences: Source:** Israeli media