Tel Aviv: The Israeli government has unanimously endorsed the return of far-right politician Itamar Ben-Gvir to the position of national security minister. The decision was made official through a statement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, which also confirmed the reappointments of Knesset members Amichay Eliahu as heritage minister and Isaac Wasserlauf as Negev, Galilee, and national resilience minister.

According to Anadolu Agency, Attorney General Gali Bharav-Miara expressed opposition to Ben-Gvir's reappointment, citing multiple petitions filed with the Supreme Court demanding his dismissal. Despite this, the Israeli Knesset approved the return of Ben-Gvir and his Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party to the government, reinforcing their role in Netanyahu's coalition.

The Knesset's vote saw 65 members in favor and 46 against the decision, underscoring the importance of Ben-Gvir's party, which holds six seats in the 120-seat assembly. His return is crucial for Netanyahu, particularly as the deadline to pass the state budget bill approaches, a requirement that if unmet, would result in the automatic dissolution of the government.

The backdrop of this political maneuvering is the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Nearly 50,000 Palestinians, most of whom are women and children, have died, and over 112,000 have been injured since the escalation of military actions in October 2023. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.