Lapid Rules Out Netanyahu Government, Criticizes Divisive Politics

Yair Lapid, leader of the Yesh Atid party, stated unequivocally on October 19, just eight days before the election, that he will not join any government led by Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing that Netanyahu must step down. Lapid's comments came amid a contentious political climate, including a Shas party ad that placed Lapid's image alongside Lieberman and Golan, with a caption implying they would turn Israel into a "land for all nations," a phrase with potentially offensive connotations.

Lapid condemned the use of derogatory nicknames and personal attacks in politics, citing examples like "monkey" aimed at Gadi Eisenkot and mockery of Avigdor Lieberman's accent. He described these tactics as "disgusting racism" employed for political gain, vowing to clean up the political atmosphere and return to substantive debate on issues like education, the economy, and ultra-Orthodox conscription. Lapid expressed confidence in his alliance with Naftali Bennett, forming the "Be-Yahad" bloc, predicting it would be a "sensation" in the elections due to growing support, particularly from young voters, and the party's strong grassroots organization.

Addressing US President Donald Trump's endorsement of Netanyahu, Lapid called it election interference. He criticized Netanyahu for seeking Trump's support for his own political benefit rather than prioritizing national security, specifically regarding Iran. Lapid asserted his own tougher stance on Iran, advocating for the destruction of its energy infrastructure, and expressed distrust in Netanyahu's government to effectively counter Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah, warning of future failures if the current leadership remains.

Lapid also condemned "Jewish terror" in the West Bank, calling it a disgrace to Judaism and Israel, and a source of international damage. He disagreed with Netanyahu's characterization of the perpetrators as mere "hooligans," arguing they represent the government's policy and are inspired by figures like Itamar Ben-Gvir. Lapid proposed deploying security forces to quell the violence, stating these individuals are terrorists and criminals.

Regarding internal opposition dynamics, Lapid confirmed a recent meeting with Eisenkot and Bennett, clarifying it was not a secret plot and that he had informed Lieberman. He reiterated his firm refusal to join a Netanyahu government, citing Netanyahu's perceived danger to Israel's security, economy, and international standing, and his divisive political methods. Lapid expressed willingness to form unity governments with Likud after Netanyahu leaves office. He concluded by urging immigrant voters to support his and Bennett's "best team," which he believes is prepared to govern effectively from day one, focusing on the productive class rather than political appointments or exemptions from military service.