Ex-Minister Ramon Believes Gadi Eisenkot Could Form Next Government

Former Justice Minister Haim Ramon expressed his conviction that Prime Minister Netanyahu will not be the next premier, citing recent poll data. Ramon stated in an interview with Kol Barama radio that he believes Netanyahu's current coalition will not secure the 61 seats needed for a majority. If a majority is not achieved, Ramon predicts the formation of a minority government, potentially led by MK Gadi Eisenkot, rather than immediate new elections.

Ramon explained that such a minority government's primary objective would be to remove Netanyahu, Smotrich, and Ben-Gvir from their offices, with the central goal being Netanyahu's departure from the Prime Minister's residence. Following this, the government would aim to establish a state commission of inquiry and then seek to broaden its coalition base by attracting members from the Likud party or gaining support from the ultra-Orthodox parties.

He elaborated on the political mechanics, noting that while 61 MKs are required to topple a government, fewer are needed to form one. Ramon suggested that Arab parties could provide external support through votes or abstentions, and some Haredi factions might also offer point support.

Ramon also commented on public discourse, observing that constant focus on security issues tends to benefit Netanyahu, whereas the re-emergence of the Haredi draft issue could bolster the opposition bloc. He estimated that Arab parties would win 14-15 seats, leaving approximately 105 seats for Zionist and Haredi parties. He concluded that it is highly unlikely for either bloc to reach 61 seats independently, and the opposition's desire to replace the government would likely overcome internal disputes.