National security minister: Israel not another star on American flag

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has made a series of remarks emphasising Israel’s independence in security decision-making and rejecting what he described as external pressure from allies.

Speaking in comments addressing Israel’s relationship with the United States, Ben-Gvir said the prime minister “is an independent prime minister” and stressed that “Israel is not another star on the American flag," Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

He added that there is “no situation” in which Israel should act “according to the dictates of a friend—even if he truly is a great friend,” underscoring his view that Israeli policy must remain fully sovereign.

Turning to regional dynamics, the minister referred to Lebanon and the role of Hezbollah within its political system. He argued that “the Lebanese have Hezbollah ministers in their government” and described Lebanon as having “pursued a revolving-door policy toward Hezbollah.” He added that he does not trust Lebanon and suggested that “they also need to pay the price,” without providing further detail on what measures he was referring to.

Ben-Gvir also recounted a conversation with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, saying that when asked about his proposed solution, he replied: “My solution is to do to today’s Nazis what you did to the Nazis.” 

"Hezbollah are Nazis," he said. 

By Sabina Mammadli