Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir is expected to travel during Passover for his first official overseas visit since joining the current government – according to a report published today (Tuesday) in Maariv. The visit will take place in Washington, at the invitation of his counterparts from the Trump administration, and is expected to last about a week.
Visit Schedule
While in the United States, Ben Gvir is scheduled to meet with Trump administration officials responsible for homeland security and policing, as well as with members of the Senate and Congress. He will also meet with Jewish leaders who advocate for Israel and Jewish communities in the diaspora. In addition to policy meetings, Ben Gvir is expected to deliver several speeches at events and venues across the country.
A Dramatic Shift in the American Approach
The invitation from senior American officials signals a dramatic shift in the U.S. approach toward Otzma Yehudit party leader Itamar Ben Gvir, in stark contrast to the previous boycott policy under the Biden administration. For example, in November 2024, 88 Democratic members of Congress called on then President Joe Biden to impose sanctions on Ministers Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, claiming they played “critical roles in advancing policies that promote settler violence and weaken the Palestinian Authority.”
Smotrich Reconnected with U.S. Officials Two Months Ago
About two months ago, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich spoke with incoming U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Smotrich congratulated Bessent on his new appointment. The call marked the end of the previous boycott by the Biden administration.
“We’ll Continue Discussing Economic Issues Soon”
In their conversation, Smotrich emphasized the strong and strategic friendship between Israel and the United States, and the shared commitment of both countries to advancing common values and strengthening economic ties. He also thanked the secretary for the Trump administration’s clear and unwavering support for Israel.
Netanyahu–Trump Meeting
Ben Gvir’s visit will take place just a few days after the Trump–Netanyahu meeting at the White House, where the two leaders discussed several key issues, including the Iranian threat, the war in Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages, and Trump’s new tariff plan.
