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‘Nation chose the Right’: Ben-Gvir defends role, blasts A-G at High Court hearing

From Jerusalem Post · (1d ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir attacked the Attorney General and the judicial system ahead of a High Court hearing on petitions seeking his dismissal.
  • Ben-Gvir asserted that he was elected to enact the will of right-wing voters and govern, not to be a passive figure.
  • The hearing saw significant support for Ben-Gvir from coalition members, who argued the High Court lacks the authority to dismiss him.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has forcefully defended his tenure and challenged the judicial system ahead of a critical High Court of Justice hearing concerning petitions for his dismissal. Speaking directly to the public, Ben-Gvir framed the legal challenge as an attempt to silence the voice of right-wing voters, directly accusing Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara of seeking to disenfranchise those who elected him. His message is clear: the nation chose the Right, and he intends to govern accordingly.

Gali Baharav-Miara wants to take your voice from you.

— Itamar Ben-GvirNational Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir attacking the Attorney General before a High Court hearing on petitions to dismiss him.

Ben-Gvir articulated his mandate from the electorate, stating unequivocally that he was elected to implement the agenda of his supporters and to actively govern, not merely to fulfill ceremonial duties. He asserted that his actions, including perceived interference in law enforcement discretion, are precisely what he was chosen to do. This stance positions the current legal proceedings as an affront to democratic will and a challenge to the legitimacy of the government's mandate.

I’m a minister of actions. The only reason we’re here today is that I stood by my word.

— Itamar Ben-GvirNational Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir asserting his commitment to his promises ahead of a High Court hearing.

The minister's defense was bolstered by a strong show of support from numerous coalition politicians and ministers, who rallied outside the High Court. Their presence underscored a unified front against the judicial review, with many arguing that the court oversteps its authority in attempting to dismiss an elected official. This collective backing highlights a significant political battleground where the power of the judiciary intersects with the will of the people as expressed through elections, a narrative particularly resonant with Ben-Gvir's base.

The nation chose the Right, and they will get the Right. And whoever that’s not good for, go to the Knesset elections and vote.

— Itamar Ben-GvirNational Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir defending his actions and political stance ahead of a High Court hearing.
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Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.