Netanyahu-Izankot Government Could Reshape Israeli Politics
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
This scenario might also include ultra-Orthodox parties, sidelining figures like Liberman, Ben Gvir, and Smotrich. The ultimate outcome will depend on voter support and the government's effectiveness.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- Figures like Liberman, Ben Gvir, and Smotrich might be excluded from a potential Netanyahu-Gantz coalition.
- The ultra-Orthodox parties could benefit by remaining in government under this scenario.
- Bennett might gain votes but could inadvertently strengthen Netanyahu's negotiating position.
- International preferences for a broad government might influence the potential coalition's formation.
This scenario might also secure a place for the ultra-Orthodox parties in the next government, while figures like Avigdor Liberman, Ofir Golan, Itamar Ben Gvir, and possibly Bezalel Smotrich could find themselves outside of it.
While this appears to be a contest for leadership of the bloc seeking to replace Netanyahu, it may ultimately determine who joins the next government. The analysis suggests a Netanyahu-Gantz government, potentially including the ultra-Orthodox and other partners, is a plausible outcome based on the interests and potential maneuvering of key players, though no concrete agreement is known.
Such a government could benefit Netanyahu by allowing him to remain in power, reducing his reliance on smaller parties like those led by Ben Gvir and Smotrich, and providing a broader public base for policy decisions. However, he risks alienating his base by enabling another Netanyahu term, making the rotation order crucial.
The ultra-Orthodox parties could gain by remaining in government, potentially expanding their influence beyond their current bloc. Golan and Ben Gvir might also lose influence if a broad coalition doesn't require their support, diminishing their bargaining power.
Smotrich's position is more complex; he might join but with reduced leverage, potentially losing his ability to condition the government's continuation on his demands.
International factors, including reported preferences from the Trump administration for a broad government and a limited Netanyahu term, could play a role, though the US ambassador has denied direct intervention. Such external support could provide a public rationale for a Netanyahu-Gantz alliance. Ultimately, the success of such a broad government would depend on its effectiveness in critical areas like security, conscription, and the economy, not just on the division of roles among rivals.
