Former Minister Ramon Predicts Netanyahu Will Not Lead Next Government

Former Israeli Minister Chaim Ramon predicts that no political bloc will secure the 61-seat majority needed to form a government in the upcoming elections, leading to a scenario where Benjamin Netanyahu is no longer prime minister. Ramon estimates that Arab parties will win between 13 and 15 seats, a factor he believes will prevent Netanyahu from forming a coalition, even a transitional one.

Ramon presented a scenario where a minority government led by Gadi Eisenkot is the most likely outcome. He suggested that if Netanyahu's bloc fails to reach 61 seats, the alternative would be either expanding the current government or holding new elections without Netanyahu at the helm. Ramon acknowledged two potential exceptions to his prediction: the fall of the Iranian regime, which could significantly shift public opinion in Netanyahu's favor, or Avigdor Lieberman's ambition to become prime minister, potentially leading him to form a rotation government with Eisenkot.

Ramon's analysis was presented on 103FM, where he expressed strong confidence in his forecast, stating, "I dare to say that from everything I see, there is no chance that either bloc will reach 61 seats." He further elaborated that Arab parties would not allow Netanyahu to continue as a caretaker prime minister. Ramon also noted Lieberman's stated opposition to Eisenkot's perceived lack of experience during the launch of the Yisrael Beiteinu party list.