Netanyahu Urges Right-Wing Unity, Warns Against Left-Wing Government With Golan and Arab Parties

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply responded to Interior Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's rejection of a proposed right-wing political alliance, warning that personal ambitions should not jeopardize the country. Netanyahu called on Ben-Gvir to reconsider his refusal to unite with Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich, emphasizing that the goal is to strengthen the right-wing bloc and avoid wasted votes, especially since Smotrich's party is near the electoral threshold.

Netanyahu cautioned that without such unity, Israel risks forming a left-wing government led by former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, alongside Yair Golan and Arab parties. He stressed the stakes involved, saying, "The Land of Israel, the people of Israel, and the State of Israel are on the line," and urged Ben-Gvir to make the right decision for the sake of national unity.

Ben-Gvir dismissed Netanyahu's proposal, accusing the prime minister of wanting to keep Otzma Yehudit small to facilitate a broader coalition with Eizenkot after the elections. He suggested an alternative plan where Otzma Yehudit would run independently, while Smotrich would join forces with Ofir Winter's new party, "Amcha Yisrael." This political tension unfolds amid Winter's entry into the race, with his clear support for Netanyahu as prime minister.

Netanyahu plans to invite both Ben-Gvir and Smotrich for a meeting soon to push for unity despite personal differences, warning that a split right-wing vote could lead to a repeat of the 1992 scenario, which resulted in a left-wing government and the Oslo Accords. He emphasized that the public expects the right-wing leaders to set aside disputes to prevent vote loss and the establishment of a left-wing government.