Election Predictions: Smotrich Surprise, Eisenkot Leads Coalition

Ahead of Israel's upcoming elections, a commentator predicts that Bezalel Smotrich will surprise voters, while Naftali Bennett may disappoint. The commentator's main hope is for Gadi Eisenkot to lead a government coalition, potentially including the Likud and Religious Zionism parties. Alongside these predictions, there is a call to end political boycotts, rebuild the national religious camp, and restore stateliness to public discourse.

The article criticizes the intense hatred and polarization characterizing the election campaign, citing harsh rhetoric from various politicians. Examples include accusations of killing babies and the demeaning portrayal of the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) public. The author argues that while criticism of government policy is legitimate, the language used must remain within acceptable bounds, emphasizing that democracy requires respecting differing opinions.

Further criticism is directed at the current government, particularly the Minister of National Security, whose main achievement is seen as increasing division. The author also questions statements from the Prime Minister's circle, such as claims about Iran's nuclear capabilities juxtaposed with images of a burning Tel Aviv, and the public disclosure of economic contingency plans. The importance of a leader's ability to communicate decisions effectively to the public is highlighted.

The media's coverage of legal proceedings against the Prime Minister is also scrutinized, with the author suggesting that certain testimonies, including that of the former Attorney General, may have received insufficient attention. Questions are raised about the former Attorney General's memory and preparedness for his testimony, as well as the timing of revelations about alleged malfunctions.

Looking beyond the elections, the commentator expresses a desire for a government led by Gadi Eisenkot's Yishai party, in cooperation with Likud and Smotrich's Religious Zionism. While acknowledging Netanyahu's potential to continue leading Likud, the author suggests that even a successful leader should eventually step down, drawing a parallel to Winston Churchill. The piece also critiques Avigdor Lieberman's rhetoric towards citizens who did not vote for him and Naftali Bennett's internal political discourse, predicting Bennett's electoral collapse as a surprise.

Ultimately, the article stresses the collective responsibility to demonstrate maturity and responsibility, regardless of election outcomes. It calls for stateliness from both the government and the opposition, urging an end to treating political opponents as enemies. The author advocates for rebuilding trust, stateliness, and the ability to cooperate despite disagreements, emphasizing the need to restore the bridging role once characteristic of the national religious movement.