National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir Exits Independence Ceremony After Internal Dispute Over Prime Ministerial Seating

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir leaves the state ceremony in Jerusalem after a seating dispute involving the Argentine delegation and Miri Regev.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 2:25 PM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Times of Israel

A Sudden Departure from State Festivities

The annual Independence Day celebration in Jerusalem was marked by a public display of internal government friction as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir walked out of the event. Accompanied by his wife, the Minister exited the ceremony on Mount Herzl following a confrontation with event organizers. This departure from one of the state's most significant official functions highlights ongoing tensions within the current administration during a period of national commemoration.

The Argentine Delegation Seating Conflict

According to reports from ceremony organizers cited by Hebrew media, the conflict began when the Minister and his spouse occupied seats specifically reserved for the visiting entourage of Argentine President Javier Milei. Staff at the event reportedly requested that the Minister vacate those positions and move to the area specifically designated for Israeli cabinet members. Organizers maintained that Ben Gvir had been assigned a seat consistent with the protocol afforded to all other senior government officials and ministers.

Rejection of Prime Ministerial Proximity

Sources close to the National Security Minister offered a different perspective on the motivation behind the walkout, suggesting the issue was a matter of rank and proximity. These sources informed Channel 12 that Ben Gvir had explicitly requested to be seated next to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The request was reportedly rebuffed by Transportation Minister Miri Regev, who was responsible for the logistical organization and management of the annual state celebration.