Bennett Admits Post-Oct. 7 Stance Shift, Criticizes Netanyahu
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Together party, revealed that the October 7th attacks prompted him to shift his economic views, moving from strict free-market principles towards supporting border-defending industries. He criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu's government, calling for Netanyahu's resignation and accusing him of dividing the country for political gain. Bennett also proposed an economic plan that prioritizes IDF reservists and suggested redirecting funds from the Haredi education system. He also called for Qatar to be declared an enemy state due to its alleged anti-Israel activities.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Naftali Bennett stated October 7th shifted his economic views towards supporting border-defending industries.
- Bennett criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu, calling for his resignation and accusing him of dividing Israel.
- Bennett proposed an economic plan prioritizing IDF reservists over non-serving civilians.
- Bennett called for Qatar to be declared an enemy state due to alleged anti-Israel campaigns.
- Bennett criticized the Haredi education system for not teaching core subjects and proposed redirecting funds.
Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Together party, stated on Wednesday that the events of October 7th have caused him to shift his economic views from strict free-market principles towards incentivizing industries that protect Israel's borders. Speaking at a conference for the Manufacturers Association, Bennett outlined a plan for an "Israeli Renaissance" focused on supporting domestic industry, not through mandatory purchases, but by reducing government burdens. He proposed grants for peripheral areas, accelerated vocational training in AI, and restoring Israel's global standing. Bennett acknowledged a change in his perspective on economic sovereignty, likening the need to protect industry to preserving agriculture and state lands.
When asked by journalist Amit Segal if he had shifted leftward economically, Bennett deflected, but confirmed that October 7th altered his priorities. He also addressed the issue of sanctions and boycotts against Israel, stating the situation is dire and not entirely the government's fault, but also pointing to Qatar's alleged 20-year preparation and funding of anti-Israel campaigns, suggesting Qatar be declared an enemy state. Bennett strongly criticized the current Israeli government, calling its actions and statements immensely damaging and unnecessary. He specifically targeted Prime Minister Netanyahu, whom he accused of being controlled by ministers Ben Gvir and Smotrich, and failing to act, forcing Bennett to defend them abroad.
Bennett also presented an economic plan prioritizing reservists over non-serving civilians, proposing to redirect funds from the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) education system, which he criticized for not teaching core subjects like math and English, towards targeted benefits for reservists. He argued that the current system, which he admitted to being part of as a former education minister, fails to prepare Haredi youth for national service. Bennett reiterated his belief that Prime Minister Netanyahu must step down, stating that a government with him would not succeed due to his alleged strategy of dividing Israel for political gain. He also commented on Ofer Vinter, a candidate he knows from his military service, calling a vote for Vinter a vote for Netanyahu and a continuation of draft evasion.
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