Netanyahu Calls for Broad National Government, Declares Legal Case Against Him Collapsed

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared on Channel 14's "The Patriots" program on Tuesday evening, marking his first media appearance following significant developments in political, security, and legal arenas, including a dramatic court ruling on his case just a day earlier. When asked what had changed since the October 7 massacre, Netanyahu joked about losing weight before shifting to a serious tone, reflecting on lessons learned from the event and emphasizing Israel's military strength and territorial defense.

Netanyahu highlighted major operational achievements against Iran and its proxies, claiming the elimination of key figures such as Daff, Sinwar, Haniyeh, and Nasrallah, and the establishment of security zones in Gaza and Lebanon. He warned Iran against pursuing nuclear weapons, stating firmly that under his leadership, Iran will never acquire them. He also criticized the previous government's maritime agreement, asserting it ceded territory to Iran and Hezbollah, while his government strengthened Israel's security buffer zones.

Addressing political rivals, Netanyahu defended his decisions during the hostage rescue operations and noted improved relations with former U.S. President Donald Trump. He dismissed threats from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as a consequence of Iran's weakening influence. On domestic issues, Netanyahu acknowledged the high cost of living but avoided detailed solutions, focusing instead on housing price reductions and support for reservists.

Regarding his ongoing legal battles, Netanyahu declared the bribery charge in Case 4000 had collapsed and expressed confidence that remaining charges would also be dismissed. He criticized the trial as divisive and politically motivated, calling for national unity and an end to repeated elections. Netanyahu also outlined plans for a broad coalition government including ultra-Orthodox parties and Smotrich, warning that the alternative would be a narrow left-wing government.

On Gaza, he stated the goal is to dismantle Hamas's civilian rule, supporting voluntary emigration from the Strip. He avoided commenting on resuming Jewish settlement in Gaza. Concerning the contentious draft law for ultra-Orthodox enlistment, Netanyahu blamed political timing for past failures but proposed a future law to draft 23,000 ultra-Orthodox within three and a half years, emphasizing respect for Torah study traditions.

In a surprising economic statement, Netanyahu announced intentions to phase out U.S. military and economic aid over ten years, citing Israel's growing economy nearing a trillion-dollar valuation and its ability to self-fund. His remarks, especially the joke about weight loss since October 7, sparked immediate political backlash, with former IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot condemning Netanyahu as disconnected and unfit, calling for a state commission to investigate the October 7 failure and prevent recurrence.