National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir sharply criticized Israel’s policy in Lebanon on Monday, arguing that now is not the time for restraint and warning that those who threaten Israeli civilians must face a far harsher response.

Speaking at the start of an Otzma Yehudit faction meeting, Ben Gvir took aim at the decision to halt fire in southern Lebanon following requests from the United States. He argued that Israel has reached its closest point yet to defeating Hezbollah and called it a historic opportunity to secure lasting security for future generations.

“Not another weak ceasefire,” Ben Gvir said. “Anyone who threatens the citizens of Israel must know that the price will be unbearable.”

The minister said years of restraint and measured responses had failed to bring security, claiming Israel’s enemies interpreted such policies as weakness. He argued that if Lebanon allows its territory to be used as a base for attacks against Israel, then Beirut must bear the consequences.

While expressing appreciation for President Trump and the United States, Ben Gvir stressed that Israel’s security interests must come first. “We love President Trump, but Israel’s soldiers, our fighters, our residents, and the security of Israeli citizens come first,” he said.

Ben Gvir also criticized former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and other political opponents, arguing that his own position — that the lives and security of Israeli citizens must come before international pressure — reflects the views of a large segment of the Israeli public.

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