Netanyahu Calls for National Unity Government, Warns Against New Coalition

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a strong warning Saturday night against the formation of a new government within the coming week, urging national unity instead. He argued that any new government relying on parties supporting Hamas and radical Islam would be unable to effectively combat these threats, endanger Israel's security, and compromise its Jewish character. "With such a government, Israel simply will not survive," Netanyahu stated in a video message, advocating for "national unity" over "national suicide."

Netanyahu claimed that political factions are rushing to swear in a new government that would depend on parties he alleges support terrorism and oppose Israel's existence as a Jewish state. He expressed concern that such a government, potentially collaborating with elements seeking to destroy Israel and establish a Palestinian state on its ruins, would be incapable of fighting Hamas or radical Islam, thereby weakening Israel's ability to confront the Iranian threat. He also suggested such a government would not provide necessary backing for IDF soldiers, citing accusations from some potential coalition partners against soldiers and support for Hamas and Hezbollah.

The Prime Minister further warned of internal repercussions, comparing the potential scenario of a government reliant on Islamists to violent events in European cities like Paris and Brussels. He cautioned that severe violence could erupt in Israeli cities, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa, emphasizing this was not a theoretical possibility but a scenario to be prevented.

Netanyahu proposed forming a national unity government that would include all "national camp" and Zionist parties committed to preserving Israel as the Jewish people's state. He asserted such a government could permanently remove the nuclear threat from Iran, safeguard Israel's Jewish character, and strengthen social unity. He did not specify which parties might join or if discussions were underway for his proposed coalition.