The years of media attacks, parodies, and indictments have only boostedBen Gvir’s influence
The Gordon swimming pool facing the Tel Aviv marina is frequented by the cream of Israeli society. Many of the nation’s leading doctors, lawyers, and celebrities are among the pool’s patrons. Their delicate sensibilities were offended 11 years ago, when a group of 40 Sudanese refugees led by right-wing firebrand MK Michael Ben-Ari and his aide Itamar Ben Gvir demanded admission to the pool as part of a campaign to prove the hypocrisy of Israel’s secular elite.
At first the pool staff refused to allow the refugees in, pointing out that they didn’t have swimming gear. But when one of the Otzma Yehudit activists pulled out swimsuits for the Sudanese, and Ben Gvir warned the staff that they could be sued for discrimination, the staff caved.
The refugees’ entrance caused consternation, with some swimmers storming out, but others realized what was afoot and welcomed the refugees.
The long-forgotten incident was an early example of Itamar Ben Gvir’s signature, divisive style, featuring legal nous and media-savvy in service of right-wing causes.
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