On US tour, Israeli Security Minister champions controversial U.S. proposal amid protests and political upheaval. While Ben-Gvir is considered by some Israelis to be extremist and repugnant, Trump’s plan for evacuation of Gazans and US ownership of Gaza has made Ben-Gvir’s support for “voluntary transfer” seem quite mainstream and moderate. That’s just fine with him.
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s recent U.S. tour has stirred significant controversy, marked by his vocal support for President Donald Trump’s contentious “Gaza Riviera” plan. This proposal envisions the displacement of Gaza’s Palestinian population and the redevelopment of the region into a Mediterranean resort area. Ben-Gvir’s endorsement of the plan, coupled with his appearances at various U.S. venues, has ignited protests and drawn criticism from multiple quarters.
Championing the ‘Gaza Riviera’
During his visit to the United States, Ben-Gvir expressed strong support for Trump’s plan, which entails the removal of Palestinians from Gaza to facilitate its transformation. At a fundraising event at Mar-a-Lago, he stated, “They expressed support for my very clear position on how to act in Gaza and that the food and aid depots should be bombed in order to create military and political pressure to bring our hostages home safely.”
Ben-Gvir’s backing of the plan aligns with his longstanding advocacy for the “voluntary migration” of Palestinians from Gaza. He has previously urged the Israeli government to pursue such policies “immediately.”
A Tour Marked by Protests
Ben-Gvir’s U.S. tour included stops at Yale University and a Chabad synagogue in Brooklyn. At Yale, his appearance prompted significant protests, with demonstrators criticizing his support for aggressive actions in Gaza. The university subsequently revoked the recognition of the student group Yalies4Palestine, citing violations of university policies during the protests.
In Brooklyn, six individuals were arrested during clashes between protesters and attendees at the Chabad-Lubavitch world headquarters. The confrontations underscored the deep divisions surrounding Ben-Gvir’s visit and the policies he represents.
Domestic and International Reactions
Ben-Gvir’s support for the Gaza Riviera plan has drawn criticism from various quarters. In the U.S., some Jewish organizations and human rights groups condemned his visit and the policies he advocates. Khaled Elgindy, a visiting scholar at Georgetown University’s Center for Contemporary Arab Studies, described Ben-Gvir’s reception in the U.S. as “deeply disturbing.”
Internationally, Trump’s proposal has been met with widespread condemnation. The United Nations and several countries have denounced the plan as a violation of international law, with some experts labeling it as potential ethnic cleansing. Despite this, Ben-Gvir and other far-right Israeli officials continue to support the initiative.
Fleisher’s Defense of Ben-Gvir
Yishai Fleisher, a Hebron resident and prominent Israeli commentator who is translating speech’s for the Security Minister on this junkiet, has defended Ben-Gvir against accusations of extremism. He argues that Ben-Gvir’s policies are rooted in a realistic understanding of the Middle East’s security challenges. Fleisher states, “Ben-Gvir is not an extremist. He’s a realist who understands the Middle East. He knows that strength and clarity are the only languages respected here.”
Addressing the media’s portrayal of Ben-Gvir, Fleisher remarks, “The media loves to paint him as a radical, but if you listen to what he actually says, it’s about enforcing the law and ensuring safety for all Israelis.” He emphasizes that Ben-Gvir’s focus is on protecting Israeli citizens from terrorist threats and maintaining law and order.
Fleisher also highlights Ben-Gvir’s commitment to national pride and security, stating, “Ben-Gvir wants to restore a sense of national pride and security. He’s about making Israel strong and self-reliant.” Regarding international criticism, Fleisher notes, “International critics often misunderstand or misrepresent his positions. But Ben-Gvir is clear: he stands against terrorism and for the safety of all Israelis.”
Itamar Ben-Gvir’s U.S. tour and his endorsement of the Gaza Riviera plan have amplified debates over Israel’s policies toward Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While his positions resonate with certain political factions, they have also provoked significant opposition and raised concerns about the implications for regional stability and international law.
Whatever the outcome of that plan, the bottom line is that Hamas MUST be disarmed, and there CANNOT be any “Palestinian” state on Israeli designated land, period. Indeed, they should not be permitted to remain in Israel at all, having proven for decades they will not live there peaceably!