Likud Party Member of Knesset (MK) Nissim Vaturi stirred controversy on Tuesday with his remarks on Army Radio, asserting that Israel’s continued existence is owed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Vaturi’s comments on Netanyahu, the relationship between Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and the issue of Jewish prayer on the Temple Mount have sparked a heated response.
In the interview, Vaturi lauded Netanyahu, stating, “Thanks to Netanyahu, we still exist; if he had listened to Defense Minister [Yoav Gallant], we could have reached destruction.”
This remark reflects Vaturi’s strong support for the Prime Minister amidst ongoing political tensions within the Israeli government.
Vaturi’s comments seem to be a direct counter to calls from within the Likud Party for Gallant’s dismissal, which have intensified recently.
When asked about the call for Gallant’s removal, Vaturi expressed his view that such a move would be problematic at this time. “I think it’s a worthy move. But I say, at this point in time right now, I think it’s a bit of a problem,” Vaturi said.
He further criticized the idea of the Defense Minister taking action against the Prime Minister, asserting, “But yes, I think this behavior is inappropriate. What will we do? Will the Defense Minister fire the Prime Minister? No.”
Vaturi also addressed the sensitive issue of Jewish prayer on the Temple Mount, a topic that continues to stir significant debate.
“All religions are allowed to pray anywhere in Jerusalem – this is how we have always maintained the status quo, and the Muslims will have to accept it,” Vaturi asserted.
His comments align with a broader political stance that supports Jewish prayer rights on the Temple Mount, a flashpoint of religious and political tension in Israel.
The MK’s comments come in the wake of his previous controversial statements. In June, Vaturi faced backlash for suggesting that demonstrators advocating for a hostage negotiation deal with Hamas were acting as a “wing” for the terrorist organization.
He later apologized, claiming that his remarks were taken out of context. Further controversy erupted when Vaturi was filmed inciting protesters to storm the Sde Teiman military base and shouting “Death to the terrorists.”
This incident prompted Yesh Atid MK Merav Ben Ari to call for his removal as Deputy Speaker of the Knesset, urging Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana to take action.
Vaturi’s recent remarks and actions have intensified scrutiny on his political career and his relationship with other members of the Likud Party.
As Israel navigates complex political and security challenges, Vaturi’s outspoken positions continue to provoke debate and reflect broader divisions within Israeli politics.