Netanyahu Calls for Unity Government, Slams Arab Parties

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a sharp speech following the swearing-in of new Knesset members, addressing Arab and Haredi lawmakers and reiterating his call for a national unity government. The session was marked by chaos as several lawmakers interrupted his address.

Netanyahu began by discussing the threat from Iran, stating that despite Israeli actions, Iran persists in its plan to destroy Israel and is working to resume its nuclear program. He asserted that the path to eliminating this existential threat is to overthrow the Ayatollah regime, claiming significant achievements in changing the Middle East. He warned of future international pressure to accept a nuclear Iran and to relinquish Israeli achievements in Gaza, Lebanon, and Judea and Samaria, potentially leading to an Iranian-backed Palestinian state.

He then urged the formation of a unity government to confront these challenges. Netanyahu criticized Arab parties for not designating Hamas as a terrorist organization, accusing some lawmakers of supporting terrorism and harboring ideologies centered on hating Israel and destroying the Jewish state. He questioned the true intentions of blocs that include such individuals, suggesting their only difference lies in whether they envision an Islamic state like Hamas or a nationalistic Palestinian state like Fatah, but agreeing on the non-existence of Israel as a Jewish state.

During his speech, Netanyahu was interrupted by several MKs, including Naftali Bennett, who questioned the investigation into October 7th, and another who asked about Qatari advisors and why Qatar is not declared a terrorist state. Minister Ben Gvir and MK Bardugo also interjected with critical remarks. MK Gilead Eran later shouted that Netanyahu is a provocateur and questioned his alleged Qatari funding.

Gadi Eisenkot, head of the "Yachad" party, responded to Netanyahu's speech, calling it divisive and hateful, and stating that Netanyahu is unfit to continue in office. Eisenkot advocated for the urgent formation of a national emergency government, arguing that Netanyahu's continued rule exacerbates division and endangers Israel's security.

Earlier, the 26th Knesset began its term with the swearing-in ceremony. President Isaac Herzog addressed the Knesset, urging lawmakers to complete their term and avoid new elections, noting that nearly 80% of the public chose them. Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana took over the session from Herzog after the latter administered the oath.