Bennett's Party Recommends Eisenkot for Prime Minister, Securing 67 Votes

On Thursday, November 5, the Yamina party, led by Naftali Bennett, recommended Gadi Eisenkot to form a new government during a meeting with President Isaac Herzog at his residence. The party's representatives, including Liran Avissar Ben-Horin, MKs Meirav Cohen, Ram Ben-Barak, and Eitan Ginzburg, along with future MK Buria Naim Arman, expressed their desire for a government to be formed quickly following the "most terrible catastrophe" since the Holocaust. Ben-Horin stated that the party prioritizes Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, security, the elimination of Hamas, a state commission of inquiry for victims and their families, and prioritizing national service.

MK Meirav Cohen emphasized that 67 mandates are calling for a change in government due to the October 7th events, perceived failures in responsibility, and various domestic policies. She asserted that the public desires change and recommended Eisenkot, describing him as a "tremendous person" capable of forming a government. Cohen also stated the party's opposition to laws exempting Haredim from military service, advocating instead for integration and shared life.

When asked about a government of national unity and cooperation with Arab and Haredi sectors, MK Eitan Ginzburg replied that the party has clear principles and welcomes anyone who adheres to them. MK Ram Ben-Barak added that unity is desirable only with those who share their values, rejecting any alliance with those who believe in racial hierarchies or hold fascist views. He highlighted the existential danger Israel faces due to its international standing and the government's inability to prevent damage in Judea and Samaria.

President Herzog raised concerns about the lack of women in leadership positions, to which Cohen responded that their representation impacts women's lives and that a previous "change government" had more women. Future MK Naim Arman pledged that women would be present at all decision-making tables in the next government.

Earlier, the United Arab List also recommended Gadi Eisenkot, bringing his total recommendations to 67, compared to Benjamin Netanyahu's 46. The Ra'am party explained its decision as a response to public demand to prevent Netanyahu's return to power. However, they noted that the opposition, led by Eisenkot, had not yet shown sufficient readiness to counter Netanyahu's methods or combat the persecution of Arab citizens.

Consultations began on November 4, with various parties recommending either Netanyahu or Eisenkot. The Ra'am party, led by Mansour Abbas, also recommended Eisenkot, calling for swift government formation. Abbas discussed the need for an investigation into alleged foreign interference in elections, stating his party had been subjected to political persecution. He also addressed the conflict with Hamas, advocating for its disarmament and emphasizing that the party should not be constantly tested for loyalty, hinting at personal security concerns.

Following the consultations, President Herzog was expected to decide by November 10 whom to task with forming the government. Abbas expressed a desire for Haredi parties to be included in a future government, believing it was possible and important for their representation.