Netanyahu Calls for Unity, Warns of Existential Threats and International Pressure

Outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned on Tuesday of anticipated international pressure aimed at forcing Israel to relinquish control over areas in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, and to establish a Palestinian state, while also accepting a nuclear Iran. He called for the formation of a unity government under his leadership to counter these pressures during the opening session of the 26th Knesset.

In his speech, Netanyahu claimed Iran poses an "existential threat" to Israel and is working to resume its nuclear activities. He highlighted what he described as Israel's military achievements during the war, including the assassination of Palestinian, Lebanese, and Iranian leaders, stating these operations have reshaped the Middle East. He added that international pressure might also target Israeli achievements in the West Bank, reiterating his rejection of a Palestinian state and urging Israeli parties to overcome their differences to form a unity government.

Netanyahu also attacked the possibility of a minority government relying on the support of Arab parties, which he sought to delegitimize by calling them "supporters of terrorism." He warned against forming a government based on their support, stating, "There are those in the Knesset who seriously talk about forming a government based on supporters of terrorism and haters of Israel." He claimed not to oppose improving the economic and social conditions of Arab citizens in Israel.

He presented past statements from Arab lawmakers to justify his opposition to a government involving or supported by Arab parties. Netanyahu alleged that some believe there is a difference between the United Arab List and the Joint List, which he deemed incorrect, claiming both aim to "destroy the State of Israel." He asserted their only difference lies in whether to establish an Islamic state or a national Palestinian state on the ruins of the Zionist state.

Furthermore, Netanyahu accused Mansour Abbas of being willing to label Hamas a "terrorist organization" in exchange for government entry and influence, invoking the Islamic concept of "Taqiyya" (dissimulation) in his attack on Arab parties and questioning their stances.

During the speech, Yair Golan, head of the Democratic Party, walked out of the Knesset hall in protest of Netanyahu's incitement against Arabs. Naftali Bennett, head of the Yamina alliance, interrupted Netanyahu's speech, demanding clarification on his stance regarding an official investigation committee into the events of October 7, 2023, and his advisors. Bennett shouted, "Why aren't you talking about an investigation committee on October 7? What about your advisors?" amidst shouts and protests directed at him, while Netanyahu's wife, Sara, responded from her seat.