Jerusalem: Israeli prime minister-designate Gadi Eisenkot has strongly criticised caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following his speech at the swearing-in ceremony of Israel’s newly elected 26th Knesset, describing his remarks as divisive, hateful and disgraceful.
Eisenkot said Netanyahu had used an important national occasion to deepen political divisions rather than promote unity. In a statement posted on X, Eisenkot said the speech had further convinced him that Netanyahu was unfit to remain in office.
He also warned that Netanyahu’s continued leadership was dividing Israeli society and endangering the country’s security.
Netanyahu Calls for a National Unity Government
- Addressing lawmakers during the opening session of the 26th Knesset in Jerusalem on November 10, Netanyahu called for the formation of a national unity government, citing security challenges facing Israel, particularly the threat posed by Iran.
- However, Netanyahu also criticised opposition leaders for considering cooperation with Arab-led political parties, including Ra’am and the Joint List. He questioned whether Israel’s security and national identity could be entrusted to parties he accused of opposing the Jewish state.
- His remarks triggered criticism from opposition politicians, including Eisenkot and other lawmakers.
Political Tensions Following the Election
The confrontation comes after Israel’s October 27 parliamentary election, which ended Netanyahu’s parliamentary majority without giving either major political bloc a straightforward path to forming a government.
According to reported election figures:
- Netanyahu’s Likud-led bloc holds 53 seats in the 120 member Knesset.
- Eisenkot’s centre right alliance holds 48 seats.
- Arab-led parties hold 19 seats and oppose Netanyahu.
Eisenkot’s political camp is exploring possible coalition arrangements to secure a parliamentary majority. Cooperation with Arab-led parties remains a sensitive issue among potential coalition partners.
Eisenkot Plans Changes to Netanyahu-Era Policies
Following the opening of parliament, Eisenkot’s political bloc introduced legislative proposals aimed at reversing several policies associated with Netanyahu’s government.
The proposed measures include:
- Establishing a state commission of inquiry into the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks.
- Introducing term limits for Israeli prime ministers.
- Reversing judicial changes introduced under Netanyahu’s government.
- Strengthening government accountability and institutional oversight.
Eisenkot has pledged to establish a national emergency government that represents citizens across Israel.
What Happens Next?
- President Isaac Herzog has tasked Eisenkot with forming Israel’s next government. He has until December 6 to secure a coalition, with a possible extension until December 20.
- Netanyahu will continue serving as caretaker prime minister during the coalition negotiations. If Eisenkot fails to form a government, Netanyahu could be given another opportunity.
- The political confrontation highlights growing divisions within Israel over national security, relations with Arab political parties, judicial reforms and the future direction of the government.
