Netanyahu's Allies Seek to Paralyze Government Formation, Opposition Warns

Following the recent election, which saw Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing bloc secure a solid majority, a close associate of Netanyahu, Arnon Milchan, reportedly expressed satisfaction to his friend James Packer. Despite past legal entanglements involving Netanyahu and his wife, the two billionaires were pleased that their "man in charge" was back. The article draws a parallel between Netanyahu and former Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti, noting their shared skill in forming coalitions with wealthy and questionable figures.

Netanyahu's primary objective over the past four years was to weaken the law enforcement system to escape his ongoing trial and establish singular rule. His partners, including Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, sought to reinforce Jewish supremacy, while ultra-Orthodox leaders aimed to preserve their communities' privileges. Their success was partial; while institutions like the Supreme Court, police, and Shin Bet are weakened, Netanyahu still faces trial and failed to secure a "deluxe pardon" for his aide Yitzhak Herzog. Despite alleged "hostile takeovers" of power centers, associates have become entangled in scandals like the "Build" affair, Qatar, and a late-night meeting.

Former Foreign Minister Shlomo Ben-Ami described the current situation as a "colonialist tyranny," a "super-Sparta" that tramples human rights and plunders public funds. The past four years, characterized by nationalism, racism, and corruption, are seen as a prelude. Ben-Gvir has already stated the next government must be "full full right-wing" to appoint a successor to legal advisor Gali Baharav-Miara, fill Supreme Court vacancies, and retain the National Security portfolio. The article suggests that further consolidation of power will enable the suppression of investigations, disenfranchisement of Arab citizens, and persecution of journalists.

Netanyahu and his allies reportedly plan to create a deadlock in future government formations, forcing another election with Netanyahu as interim prime minister. This strategy relies on the assumption that the opposition will be weary, and voter turnout among left-wing and Arab citizens will be lower. To prevent this "nightmare scenario," the "Change Bloc" must present a unified candidate for prime minister and form a government by any means possible, avoiding internal disputes or boycotts of potential Arab or ultra-Orthodox partners.

Significant decisions may depend on Avigdor Lieberman, who previously worked to remove Netanyahu from power. However, his recent statements suggest a "tragic blindness" to the current situation. The article recalls Lieberman's past dramatic political moves, including his 2015 departure from Netanyahu's coalition, accusing him of attempting to eliminate Yisrael Beiteinu through the police and prosecution. Lieberman also alleged Netanyahu hired private investigators to follow his children and associate Martin Schlaff, though proof was lacking. The opposition draws hope from the ousting of populist leaders in Poland and Hungary, arguing that the damage caused by the current Israeli government, especially after October 7th, is far greater. The article concludes that even an optimistic scenario for repair will take years, and the alternative is "destruction."