Netanyahu Calls for Right-Wing Government, Warns Against Arab Parties

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Likud activists in Jerusalem following the release of preliminary election results for the 26th Knesset. He declared the Likud party the largest in Israel and called for the formation of a national right-wing government, while warning against a government reliant on Arab parties. Netanyahu also highlighted military achievements from the past three years, including the elimination of senior figures from Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Iranian regime, and the establishment of security zones in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. He stated that Iran is weaker than ever and Israel is stronger, but emphasized that the campaign against Iran is ongoing and that the regime's existence poses a threat to Israel's destruction. Netanyahu expressed confidence that with the support of U.S. President Donald Trump, this threat could be removed permanently.

Addressing the preliminary election results, Netanyahu urged patience for the final outcomes expected within two days. He criticized media outlets for allegedly attempting to portray his party as weak during the election campaign, suggesting they spread false information to suppress voter turnout. Netanyahu asserted that the preliminary results indicate a clear majority for the right-wing bloc among the Jewish and Zionist public in Israel, reinforcing his call for a strong, national right-wing government. He strongly opposed the idea of a government depending on anti-Zionist Arab parties, which he accused of opposing Israel's existence and supporting groups like Hamas.

Netanyahu also criticized the opposition's use of the term "covenant of service" in light of their potential cooperation with Arab parties that he claims attack IDF soldiers. He urged the Zionist and Jewish majority to unite to ensure Israel's future. The Prime Minister thanked Likud voters for their trust and acknowledged the challenges faced by his coalition partners. He also shared a personal anecdote about meeting a wounded IDF soldier at the Western Wall, expressing his deep admiration and praying for Israel's victory. He concluded his speech by reiterating the opportunity to neutralize the Iranian threat with President Trump and urged Israelis not to fear, stating, "We have overcome our enemies, and together we will overcome them in the future. Fear not, Israel, fear not."