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 fundamental principles are accepted. However, Netanyahu's indictment presents a legal obstacle to such an appointment. Bennett's initial remarks sparked significant backlash from leaders of the "Change Bloc," who expressed strong opposition to Netanyahu serving in any future government.

In response to the outcry, 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 7th massacre and therefore must go home. We will not sit with him in any constellation." He suggested his earlier comments were intended to highlight an "absurdity," given Netanyahu's opposition to conscription, a state inquiry committee, and a constitution. Bennett added that the bloc plans to replace the current government in two weeks.

Several prominent figures within the Change Bloc voiced their opposition. Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the National Unity party, declared that anyone in a leadership position on October 7th is unfit for command and leadership roles, including a ministerial position. He reiterated his previous stance that Netanyahu should not be part of any unity government. Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, also firmly rejected the idea, writing on X that his party would not sit with Netanyahu under any circumstances. Yair Golan, leader of the Democratic Party, echoed this sentiment, stating that Netanyahu would not serve in any capacity, emphasizing his responsibility for the October 7th failures and his government's actions.

These disagreements emerge shortly after the five leaders of the Change Bloc, Bennett, Eisenkot, Yair Lapid, Lieberman, and Golan, signed a joint principles document. This document committed them to forming a government together, avoiding mutual attacks, and establishing core tenets including equal burden-sharing, a state inquiry into the October 7th massacre, and limiting the tenure of the prime minister.