Bennett Rules Out Rotation Deal With Netanyahu, Calls for New Government

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has declared he will not agree to a rotation government deal with current opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu following the upcoming elections. Speaking at a real estate conference in Tel Aviv, Bennett, leader of the "Unity" party, stated unequivocally that the possibility of such a rotation is "closed." He asserted that Netanyahu bears personal responsibility for the events of October 7th and has yet to take accountability, urging him to leave the political stage. Bennett also criticized the concept of a rotation government itself, suggesting it could hinder the formation of a stable majority government. He emphasized the need to form a "new Zionist government."

Bennett's remarks followed an earlier interview on radio station 103 FM, where he discussed his party's strategy and presented himself as a professional and serious alternative for voters. He highlighted his past experience as prime minister and minister in various portfolios, stating his team is prepared to implement reforms across sectors like transportation and education. Bennett specifically addressed a significant personnel shortage in the education system, revealing his party has drafted a reform plan for the Ministry of Education, and expressed concern over Israel's declining international educational rankings.

Earlier, Bennett had also publicly criticized Bezalel Smotrich, accusing him of inciting internal division amid the election campaign.