Bennett Clarifies Stance on Netanyahu Serving in Government After Backlash

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett stated that he would not rule out the possibility of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu serving as a minister in a government led by him, provided that the government's core principles are accepted. However, Netanyahu's ongoing indictment presents a legal obstacle to such an appointment.

Bennett's initial remarks sparked strong opposition from leaders of the "Change Bloc," who firmly rejected the idea of Netanyahu serving in a future government. Following the backlash, Bennett clarified his position, stating, "I suggest everyone calm down. I have said a thousand times that Netanyahu bears direct and personal responsibility for the October 7 massacre and therefore must go home. We will not sit with him in any constellation." He suggested his earlier comments were meant to highlight an "absurdity," given Netanyahu's opposition to conscription, a state inquiry committee, and a constitution.

Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the National Unity party, also voiced his opposition, declaring, "Anyone who was in office on October 7 is not worthy of serving in command and leadership roles, including minister." This stance aligns with his previous statements that anyone in charge during the October 7 events must resign.

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, and Yair Golan, leader of the Democratic Movement, also unequivocally rejected any possibility of serving in a government with Netanyahu. Lieberman stated, "The world will turn upside down and we will not sit with Netanyahu," while Golan asserted, "Netanyahu will not sit in any government as long as it depends on the Democrats. Not as Minister of Finance, not as Minister of Water, and not as a minister without a portfolio."

The controversy arises just two weeks after the five leaders of the Change Bloc, Bennett, Eisenkot, Yair Lapid, Lieberman, and Golan, signed a joint principles document for the upcoming elections. This document included commitments to forming a government together, avoiding mutual attacks, and establishing core principles such as equal burden-sharing, a state inquiry committee for the October 7 massacre, and limiting the prime minister's term.