Amkha Israel Official Urges Bennett, Liberman to Join Right-Wing Coalition

Laly Derai, a prominent figure in Ofer Winter's Amkha Israel party, has called on former Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Avigdor Liberman to end their opposition to Benjamin Netanyahu and join a broad right-wing coalition. Speaking on i24NEWS Hebrew, Derai suggested that their inclusion could even enable the formation of a government without ultra-Orthodox parties. She urged Bennett and Liberman to cease their "absurd boycott" of the right-wing public and Netanyahu, emphasizing that the next coalition must unite "all right-wing voices." Derai believes the political landscape has fundamentally changed since October 7 and proposed that Amkha Israel could act as a "bridge" to facilitate Bennett and Liberman's entry into such a government.

Derai reaffirmed her party's support for Netanyahu, stating, "Netanyahu is the head of the right-wing camp," and recalling Amkha Israel's commitment to recommending him for Prime Minister. However, she stressed the party's independence, noting, "We do not work for him and what was will no longer be." Key reforms advocated by Amkha Israel include the integration of ultra-Orthodox individuals into the IDF and a principle of greater state benefits for those who contribute more to national service. Derai also mentioned a policy of "voluntary migration," a liberal economic approach, and the need for clear decisions on security issues.

Derai, known for her advocacy for ultra-Orthodox conscription, expressed confidence that Ofer Winter would advance their integration into the military. She reiterated her appeal to Bennett and Liberman, who also prioritize ultra-Orthodox recruitment, stating, "Join us, and we will not need to bring the ultra-Orthodox into the government."