Political Playbooks: From Netanyahu to Ben-Gvir, Resigning for Power

Netanyahu's Calculated Move

As a seasoned politician, Benjamin Netanyahu made a strategic move in 2005 by resigning from Ariel Sharon's government just before the withdrawal from Gaza. His declaration that "Gaza is becoming a base for Islamic terror" echoed his disapproval of the Disengagement plan, which he feared would create a vulnerability for nearby Israeli cities.

Netanyahu's resignation was not intended to derail the withdrawal but rather to position himself as the defender of right-wing values. This maneuver ultimately paved his way back to the prime minister's office in 2009.

Ben-Gvir's Gambit

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has followed in Netanyahu's footsteps by resigning along with two other Otzma Yehudit ministers in protest of a recent hostage deal and ceasefire with Gaza. Ben-Gvir has consistently opposed the agreement, calling it a "surrender to Hamas" that would undermine Israel's security.

Like Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir's resignation is not intended to block the deal but to solidify his support among right-wing voters. He hopes to peel away voters from other right-wing parties and strengthen his position in the next Knesset.

Similarities and Differences

Both Netanyahu and Ben-Gvir's resignations share similarities in their opposition to Gaza-related policies and their timing just before or after such policies were approved.

However, there are also differences. Unlike Netanyahu, Ben-Gvir has been consistently opposed to the deal, and he is resigning alongside other party members. Moreover, Netanyahu did not take his party out of the government, while Ben-Gvir has.

Consequences for the Coalition

Ben-Gvir's resignation has weakened the governing coalition, reducing its majority from 68-52 to 62-58. While Yesh Atid and National Unity have pledged support for the government on issues related to the deal, the coalition's stability has become more precarious.

A Tool for Political Power

Beneath the surface of these resignations lies a common thread: using resignations as a tool for political power. Both Netanyahu and Ben-Gvir have aimed to strengthen their positions for future electoral success rather than directly influencing immediate policy outcomes.