Ben-Gvir praises Netanyahu on Iran, accuses Kushner of misleading Trump on Gaza
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- Itamar Ben-Gvir praises Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of Iran and says demands are clear.Ben-Gvir criticizes Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff over Gaza messaging to Donald Trump.
‘Israel’ National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir praised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for what he described as strong and effective handling of the Iranian file, while sharply criticizing US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff over their views on Gaza.
Speaking to the ‘Israeli’ Public Broadcasting Corporation, Ben-Gvir said Netanyahu is “working excellently” on Iran-related threats and has demonstrated his ability to communicate directly with US President Donald Trump and secure achievements on the issue.
Read more: Netanyahu meets Trump Feb. 18 ahead of first official session on Gaza council
Ben-Gvir said ‘Israel’ will not accept Iran possessing nuclear capabilities or ballistic missiles, stressing that Netanyahu’s demands in negotiations are “very clear”.
Criticism of US envoys
Ben-Gvir accused Witkoff and Kushner of promoting what he called misleading ideas about the Gaza Strip to Trump. He argued that the US administration would ultimately realize that rebuilding the Gaza Strip is unrealistic under current conditions.
Read more: Gallant: "Netanyahu liar, stabs Israeli soldiers in back"
His remarks come amid renewed diplomatic activity surrounding U.S.-Iran talks and heightened coordination between Washington and ‘Israel.’
Netanyahu seeks earlier Washington visit
In parallel, a White House official said Netanyahu requested that his visit to Washington be brought forward. Netanyahu is now scheduled to meet Trump in Washington on Wednesday to discuss negotiations with Iran.
Netanyahu’s office said the prime minister believes any talks with Tehran must include limits on Iran’s ballistic missile program and an end to its regional influence.
‘Israeli’ daily Maariv reported that the commander of the ‘Israeli’ Air Force will accompany Netanyahu during the U.S. visit.
Muscat talks context
The United States and Iran concluded a round of negotiations in Muscat last Friday, mediated by Oman. The U.S. delegation was led by Witkoff and Kushner, while Iran’s team was headed by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Iran insists the talks be limited to the nuclear file in exchange for lifting international sanctions. Washington has pushed for a broader agenda that also addresses ballistic missiles and Iran’s support for armed groups in the region.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said meaningful progress would require clear commitments on missile ranges, regional activities, the nuclear program, and Iran’s treatment of its population.
Araghchi said Iran is negotiating “in good faith” but is prepared to defend its sovereignty and national security against what he described as excessive US demands.
