Yisrael Beiteinu MK Vows to Be Next National Security Minister

Yisrael Beiteinu party is aiming for a surprise in the upcoming elections, with internal assessments suggesting they could surpass current poll results and join a broad coalition seeking to oust Benjamin Netanyahu's government. MK Hamad Amar stated in a television interview that he is "100%" certain he will serve as the next National Security Minister, a commitment he attributes to party leader Avigdor Lieberman. Amar justified his ambition by highlighting his past work on issues concerning the Arab community and his desire to restore security for all citizens.

Amar downplayed polls predicting seven seats for his party, asserting that Yisrael Beiteinu historically outperforms expectations and has not yet launched its campaign. He believes the party has a strong base, particularly among immigrants from Russia and Ukraine, which polls do not fully capture. The party also aims to increase its appeal within the Arab and Druze communities, claiming a shift in voter sentiment.

A heated debate arose when a hypothetical scenario was presented: if the "change bloc" fails to secure a 61-seat majority without Arab party support. Amar deflected a direct answer, insisting his projections show a coalition of over 63 "Zionist" members of Knesset is possible without Arab party backing. He stressed the primary goal is to unseat the current government and urged Arab media to focus on issues within the Arab community.

When pressed on whether Yisrael Beiteinu would accept a government needing the vote of a 61st or 62nd Arab MK for confidence, Amar remained non-committal. He suggested Arab parties are "not yet ready" for government coalition involvement, citing his "very difficult" experience as a minister in a previous government that cooperated with the United Arab List. He believes Arab parties need to change their mindset before becoming coalition partners.

Despite his reservations about Arab party coalition participation, Amar addressed Arab voters directly, positioning himself as a strong advocate for their issues over the past four years. He warned that a significant portion of the Arab population might consider emigration if political and security changes do not occur. Amar emphasized the upcoming elections' critical nature and Yisrael Beiteinu's central role in forming an alternative government.