Benneth Warns of "Soft Likud" Voters, Criticizes Netanyahu's Leadership
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has expressed concern over the current political landscape, suggesting that the "change bloc" has lost significant ground in recent polls, dropping from 60-61 seats to 53-54. He attributes this decline partly to smaller parties hovering above the electoral threshold. Bennett argues that while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not gaining support, he is effectively preventing his rivals from rising. Bennett believes the election outcome may hinge on voter apathy rather than active participation, as voters are convinced the outgoing government failed but unconvinced the alternative can succeed.
Bennett also criticized the internal conflicts within the "change bloc," highlighting the ongoing disputes among its leaders. He noted that Gadi Eisenkot is popular but suggested that popularity does not translate to votes for the prime ministership. Bennett urged Eisenkot to adopt a more decisive leadership style, moving beyond his image as a beloved figure to one capable of leading the nation.
In a recent interview, Eisenkot accused his partners of "trickery," using the Yiddish term "foylshitik." This statement followed a secret meeting between Eisenkot and Bennett to discuss campaign adjustments. Eisenkot publicly denied any possibility of a rotation in leadership, either with Netanyahu or Bennett, and also dismissed a proposal involving Avigdor Lieberman as a potential bloc candidate.
Bennett's campaign strategy involves engaging directly with voters in various locations, including a recent event in Ashdod. He aims to connect with disillusioned Likud voters, whom he estimates at ten seats, differentiating them from staunch "Bibiists." Bennett believes the election should focus on practical issues like the cost of living and government performance, rather than political maneuvering. He also noted that younger voters are drawn to candidates like Itamar Ben-Gvir, Netanyahu, and himself, suggesting a generational divide in political appeal.
The article also touches upon the ongoing debate surrounding the IDF's conduct in Gaza, with conflicting reports on Hamas's status and the use of artificial intelligence in targeting. A senior intelligence official denied the use of autonomous AI agents, stating that the military employs older algorithms and that human oversight is maintained, though acknowledging potential errors and deviations from norms.
