Itamar Ben-Gvir Denies Existence of "Palestinian People," Opposes Statehood

On November 15, 2025, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel"s National Security Minister and a prominent figure in the right-wing Otzma Yehudit party, made a controversial statement regarding the existence of a distinct Palestinian identity. In a public address, he asserted that there is "no such thing as a "Palestinian people,"" describing the concept as an "invention" lacking historical, archaeological, or realistic foundations. Ben-Gvir"s remarks come amidst ongoing tensions in the region, particularly concerning the Gaza Strip, which has been a focal point of conflict and governance issues.

Key Details

Ben-Gvir"s comments reflect a broader ideological stance within certain segments of Israeli politics that reject the notion of Palestinian statehood. He characterized the population in Gaza as a "collection of immigrants from Arab countries" rather than a cohesive national group deserving of self-determination. He further stated that these individuals "do not deserve a reward for the terror, murder, and atrocities they have sown everywhere, especially from Gaza," referring to the ongoing violence and instability in the region.

In his address, Ben-Gvir emphasized that the only viable solution for Gaza is to promote "voluntary immigration," suggesting that the establishment of a Palestinian state would only perpetuate a cycle of terror. He firmly declared that Otzma Yehudit would not participate in any government that supports the creation of a Palestinian state in any form. This statement underscores the party"s hardline stance on national security and territorial integrity.

Ben-Gvir"s remarks also included a direct appeal to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him to make a clear declaration that the State of Israel would not permit the establishment of a Palestinian state. This call to action highlights the ongoing political discourse surrounding Israeli-Palestinian relations and the contentious debates over statehood and sovereignty.

Background

The Otzma Yehudit party, which translates to "Jewish Power," is known for its nationalist and right-wing policies, particularly regarding security and territorial issues. Ben-Gvir, who has been a polarizing figure in Israeli politics, has previously faced criticism for his hardline views and statements regarding Palestinians. His recent comments are part of a broader narrative that seeks to delegitimize Palestinian claims to nationhood and self-determination.

The Gaza Strip, home to approximately 2 million Palestinians, has been under the control of Hamas since 2007, following a violent conflict with the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority. The region has experienced multiple conflicts with Israel, leading to significant humanitarian challenges and ongoing disputes over governance and territorial rights. The international community remains divided on the issue of Palestinian statehood, with various countries and organizations advocating for different solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

What"s Next

Ben-Gvir"s statements are likely to resonate within the right-wing political landscape in Israel, potentially influencing future government policies regarding Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His firm opposition to Palestinian statehood may complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing tensions in the region. As previously reported, the Israeli government continues to face pressure from various factions, both domestically and internationally, regarding its approach to Palestinian governance and rights.

As the political climate evolves, the implications of Ben-Gvir"s remarks could lead to intensified debates within Israel about national identity, security, and the future of the Palestinian territories. The ongoing situation in Gaza remains a critical point of contention, with potential ramifications for peace efforts and regional stability.

For more on related coverage, see our article on recent developments in political discourse.