Israel’s Most Controversial Politician, with Itamar Ben-Gvir

Israel’s Most Controversial Politician, with Itamar Ben-Gvir

Rootless with Liel Leibovitz · 2025-04-24

There’s no more divisive Israeli public figure than Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir. Starting out his career as a Kahanist firebrand known for his controversial stances—like decorating his living room with a photograph of Baruch Goldstein, or working to free Yigal Amir, Yitzhak Rabin’s assassin—Ben-Gvir evolved from a political sideshow to kingmaker, winning several Knesset seats and joining Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition. For some Israelis, he’s the strong-willed, strong-armed course correction after too many years of being too soft on terror. To many others, he’s an abomination, subverting the nation’s democratic values. Visiting New York this week, Ben-Gvir attended a live event moderated by Liel to talk about his past, his actions in office, and his vision for the future of the war against Hamas.

Rootless with Liel Leibovitz

From weekly deep dives into breaking news to modern takes on very old texts, Tablet Studios podcasts bring you Jewish insight and inspiration. Our new flagship show, Rootless, tackles one urgent question facing Jews each week, with guests who will share often inconvenient but always essential truths.

Where can you listen?

Apple Podcasts Logo Spotify Logo Podtail Logo Google Podcasts Logo RSS

Episodes