Analyst Suggests Smotrich Can Forge Unity Government

Moti Shklar, a research fellow at the Hartman Institute, has warned against a narrow government and further elections in an opinion piece published in Yediot Ahronot. He criticized both political camps but identified Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich as a potential key figure to lead to a unity government.

Shklar argues that the current election results, which prevent any single bloc from forming a government alone, present a unique opportunity. He believes that forming a narrow government from either side would deepen societal divisions, while additional elections would be equally destructive. Shklar specifically cautioned against a government relying on Haredi and Arab parties, warning it could erode public trust, particularly among reservists and their families.

He also called on the current government to acknowledge its failures and change course, asserting it has acted solely for its supporters. Shklar sees an opportunity for the government to regain public trust by forming a broad Zionist government.

Shklar places the crucial move on Smotrich, suggesting the Finance Minister should present a clear ultimatum to the Prime Minister: "You cannot form a narrow government. If we are heading for further elections, I am leaving the bloc. For us to continue singing 'Am Yisrael Chai,' we must have a unity government." Shklar views Smotrich's stated willingness to compromise for unity as a test of leadership, despite past criticisms of his ideology.