Israeli security minister Ben Gvir criticised for mocking alleged strike on Iran

Israeli security minister Ben Gvir criticised for mocking alleged strike on Iran
Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir / bne IntelliNews
By bne Gulf bureau April 19, 2024

Israeli Internal Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir faced sharp criticism on April 19 from both government officials and opposition leaders after he posted a dismissive one-word tweet in response to reports of an Israeli attack on Iran.

The tweet, which read "Ridiculous", has sparked a backlash within Israel's political circles, with some fearing it could implicate Tel Aviv in the alleged attack, something which they have not taken credit for.

Sources within the Israeli cabinet, who requested anonymity, expressed concerns to Israel Radio that such statements could jeopardise national security.

Yair Lapid, leader of the opposition, condemned Ben-Gvir's actions on the X social network, stating, "No minister has ever caused such significant harm to Israel's security, reputation, and international standing."

Lapid added, "Ben-Gvir has managed to ridicule Israel from Tehran to Washington, bringing disgrace upon the country."

The situation has also affected the families of Israeli captives in Gaza, who have called for Ben-Gvir's dismissal following his remarks, according to the Hebrew daily Yedioth Ahronoth.

Meanwhile, in Iran, the commander of the army reported on heavy gunfire in Isfahan during the early hours of Friday, attributing the noise to anti-aircraft systems firing at unidentified flying objects.

This incident did not result in any casualties or damage in either Isfahan or Tabriz where Israel launched drones and rockets at.

State Arabic language news channel Al-Alam confirmed that three drones were shot down by Isfahan's defence systems, noting that the situation in the city remains normal.

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