Before a single ballot is counted, the battle over ministerial portfolios is already igniting tensions within the right-wing camp. At the center of the storm stands the Justice Ministry, one of the most sensitive and sought-after positions in Israeli politics.
According to a report by Yehuda Shlezinger on Walla!, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated in recent closed-door conversations that if the right-wing bloc secures the necessary majority and recommends him to form the government, the Justice Ministry will not go to any coalition partner and will remain in the hands of the ruling party.
Netanyahu's position comes as a direct response to clear statements by Otzma Yehudit chairman Itamar Ben Gvir, who announced that in coalition negotiations he intends to demand the ministry for MK Tally Gotliv, who holds the second spot on his list.
