Posted on 10/20/22
| News Source: i24
The two attended a Simchat Torah event in the Lubavitch village of Kfar Chabad in central Israel
Israel's Opposition Leader Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly refused to ascend the stage during a holiday event as long as far-right lawmaker Itamar Ben-Givr was there, in hopes of avoiding being photographed with him, sources told Israeli media.
The two attended a Simchat Torah event in the central Israeli village of Kfar Chabad on Monday night. Netanyahu's office told organizers he would not participate in the event but reportedly changed his mind upon learning that Defense Minister Benny Gantz would be there.
According to these reports, several of the event organizers went on stage to attempt to remove Ben-Gvir in response to Netanyahu's demands. The far-right lawmaker was allegedly angered by this, responding, "Shame on you."
In some clips, organizers can be heard saying, "He (Netanyahu) won't go up if Itamar doesn't go down."
Ben-Gvir can also be heard arguing with someone who says, “I am not letting anyone speak, just Bibi,” referring to the former premier by his nickname.
It was only after Ben-Gvir headed for the stairs that Netanyahu agreed to go on stage. The Jewish Power head was reportedly humiliated by the incident.
One of Netanyahu's associates told Ben-Gvir that their joint image would "prevent the option of a broad government with Gantz," Israeli media reported.