Israeli Opposition Plans Knesset Speaker Ouster to Gain Control

With less than a month until the 26th Knesset elections, Israeli political factions are preparing for a battle over government formation, as polls indicate no clear winner. The opposition "Bloc of Change" is reportedly coordinating a parliamentary maneuver to replace the current Knesset Speaker, Amir Ohana, immediately after the elections. This move aims to secure control of the Knesset, a strategic advantage especially if new elections are triggered.

Following a meeting on September 26, leaders from parties including Yish Atid, National Unity, Yisrael Beiteinu, and the Democratic Movement established joint working groups. One group is focused on outlining the steps for government formation post-election. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party and his office are consulting on preemptive measures to thwart the opposition's plan and maintain control of the Knesset during the transition period.

Under Israeli law, the current speaker can serve during the interim, with new elections for the position typically held after a government is formed, potentially taking months. However, a 2020 Supreme Court ruling established that if 61 Knesset members demand a vote for a new speaker, it must be held immediately, even before government formation. The opposition sees this ruling as an opportunity.

The Bloc of Change intends to coordinate this effort with Arab parties like Ra'am and the United List. Knesset Member Ahmad Tibi has publicly stated his support for replacing Ohana with the opposition's candidate. Installing a new speaker before government formation would allow the opposition to control the legislative agenda, potentially advancing key legislation such as a state commission to investigate the October 7 failures or a bill limiting the prime minister to two terms.

However, even if such laws are proposed, securing a parliamentary majority is not guaranteed, as some Knesset members might abstain from voting on contentious issues during this period. Opposition party representatives also indicated to Ynet that replacing the speaker could serve as a test for the feasibility of forming a minority government.