Ben-Gvir Rejoins Netanyahu’s Government as National Security Minister

Itamar Ben-Gvir, leader of the ultranationalist Jewish Power party, has officially returned to his role as Israel’s National Security Minister, according to a government statement released Wednesday.

Ben-Gvir had resigned from the coalition in January, protesting the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. His reinstatement bolsters Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government ahead of a critical budget vote this month, improving the coalition’s chances of stability until the next scheduled elections in October 2026.

A vocal hardliner, Ben-Gvir has advocated for the full resumption of military operations in Gaza, calling for the elimination of Hamas and the “voluntary migration” of Palestinians from the territory. He has also pushed for the reconstruction of Jewish settlements in Gaza, a position that has drawn international criticism.

His return is expected to intensify internal government debates over Israel’s Gaza policy, security measures, and long-term strategy in the region.