Bennett's Remark on Netanyahu as Minister Sparks Outcry in Opposition

A rift emerged within the "Change Bloc" after Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Together party, did not rule out the possibility of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu serving as a minister in a future government. Speaking at an election event hosted by the "Ha'aretz" newspaper, Bennett stated, "As long as we accept the fundamental principles, I have no problem with Netanyahu being a minister in our government." Other leaders within the bloc quickly condemned Bennett's statement. However, the article notes that such a scenario is currently impractical, as Netanyahu is legally barred from serving as a minister due to his indictment.

Bennett initially defended his remarks by referencing Netanyahu's tenure as Finance Minister in 2003, calling him one of Israel's best. He added that while he questioned if an "80-year-old Jew" still had the energy, if Netanyahu accepted their core principles, immediate state inquiry commission, conscription for all, and a constitution for Israel, he should "pick up the phone."

The backlash was swift. Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of Yesh Atid, stated at the same event, "I do not accept this. Anyone who was in charge on October 7 is not fit to serve in command and leadership roles, including as Finance Minister." Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, demanded Bennett retract his statement, asserting, "The world will turn upside down and we will not sit with Netanyahu. In the next government, Netanyahu will not even be able to serve as minister for regional cooperation." Yair Golan, chairman of the Democrats, also attacked Bennett, declaring, "Netanyahu will not sit in any government as long as it depends on the Democrats. Not as Finance Minister, not as Water Minister, and not as a minister without portfolio." Golan added that the person responsible for the October 7 failures and a government that promoted mass draft evasion during wartime and a judicial overhaul would not receive their endorsement.

Following the criticism, Bennett clarified his position on social media, urging calm. He reiterated that Netanyahu bears direct and personal responsibility for the October 7 massacre and must go home, and that the bloc would not sit with him in any configuration. Bennett explained his earlier remarks were intended to highlight the absurdity, given Netanyahu's opposition to conscription, a state inquiry commission, and a constitution for Israel.

The article also touches on a prior agreement among "Change Bloc" leaders, met at the home of Opposition Leader Yair Lapid on September 27, to refrain from attacking coalition partners. However, it suggests this non-aggression pact may be faltering, citing concerns from a senior bloc official about potential defections from the bloc's lists, particularly among right-wing religious candidates who may be targeted by Netanyahu's Likud party. This official specifically mentioned Rooie Polakman, listed 17th on Eisenkot's list, as having previously testified in support of the "override clause."