Junior Minister Amihai Eliyahu from the right-wing Otzma Yehudit party, who serves as a minister for Jewish heritage in Israel, has been suspended for suggesting the use of a nuclear bomb on Gaza during the Hamas war. The statement was made during an interview with Kol Beramah radio.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that Eliyahu’s comments did not reflect the country’s stance, labeling them as “not based in reality”. It was also emphasized that Eliyahu is not part of the war cabinet and does not influence government war decisions.
Despite Eliyahu later clarifying that his comment was metaphorical and not to be taken literally, there was swift backlash from other cabinet members. The Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, expressed relief that individuals with such views do not head Israel’s security. Yair Lapid, the opposition leader, immediately urged for Eliyahu’s removal from his post due to the irresponsible statement.
Netanyahu responded by suspending Eliyahu from attending cabinet meetings for an unspecified duration. The Prime Minister further reiterated on social media that Israel and the IDF are committed to adhering to international law, ensuring the safety of civilians. He affirmed that these standards would be maintained throughout their operations.
