Israel's New Knesset Session Opens Amidst Political Maneuvering
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Israel's Knesset winter session opens Tuesday amidst ongoing political maneuvering following the recent election. Key figures like Gadi Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman are positioning themselves, while Benjamin Netanyahu continues his campaign. The author suggests a unity government is likely, avoiding further elections, and highlights the behind-the-scenes influence of political figures like Aryeh Deri and the role of influential women in politics.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israel's Knesset winter session opens Tuesday amid continued political campaigning and maneuvering.
- Gadi Eisenkot is seen campaigning for prime minister, with Avigdor Lieberman as a potential opposition leader.
- Benjamin Netanyahu continues his campaign, while former rivals are now potential coalition partners.
- A unity government is anticipated to avoid further elections, involving key political figures.
- The article notes the political influence of figures like Aryeh Deri and "first ladies" in decision-making.
As Israel awaits the formation of its next government, the opening of the Knesset's winter session on Tuesday is expected to be a heated affair, marked by political posturing and campaign speeches. The author suggests that the recent election campaigns have not truly ended, with various political figures continuing their efforts to gain public support and influence. Gadi Eisenkot is portrayed as campaigning for prime minister, with Avigdor Lieberman close behind, while Benjamin Netanyahu continues his campaign narrative. Yair Golan's stance is characterized as "anyone but Bibi," and former political adversaries like the ultra-Orthodox parties are now being considered potential coalition partners, highlighting what the author calls "hypocrisy" in political alliances.
The opening session will feature speeches and symbolic actions, including the potential replacement of the Knesset speaker, a move reminiscent of past government transitions. The article references a past statement by Yair Lapid about not leaving appointed officials in place, contrasting it with Naftali Bennett's political maneuvering. Bennett is seen as potentially re-emerging in a Netanyahu-led unity government, while Lapid is described as reviving his political base for his party, now managed by Bennett.
Eisenkot is expected to make a show of strength by passing legislation but is ultimately seen as needing to join a unity government, unable to reach elections again. Lieberman is positioned as a potential opposition leader, with Netanyahu appearing moderate in comparison. The President, Yitzhak Herzog, is also aware of the need for a unity government to avoid further elections.
The article also touches upon the political career of Aryeh Deri, describing him as a significant figure in Israeli politics who has learned from past mistakes, including a controversial statement about his grandsons not serving in the IDF. Deri is expected to use his political acumen to overcome recent setbacks.
Finally, the piece draws a parallel to Nancy Reagan, highlighting the influence of "first ladies" in politics and suggesting that close female advisors play a crucial role in decision-making processes, both in the US and in Israel.
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