Transition Government Meets Amid Low Attendance, Appoints Sa'ar Interior Minister

Only 12 out of 33 ministers attended the first meeting of Israel's transition government, which will serve until the new government is sworn in. During the session, the Prime Minister's office announced that Prime Minister Netanyahu's proposal to appoint Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar as acting Interior Minister was approved. Sa'ar will fill the role, which has been vacant for about a year. As this is a transition government, Sa'ar's appointment does not require Knesset approval. The government also approved the appointment of four new Israeli ambassadors.

Prime Minister Netanyahu stated in the Knesset that forming a government of national unity is a possible move. He remarked, "This nation knows how to unite in moments of trial, and we are facing moments of trial. I cannot tell you everything I know, but there are enough people here who know the heavy challenges ahead, and also immense opportunities. Therefore, I think, I believe, that in such times, we can and must unite. This is the will of the people, these are moments of trial, this is the call of the hour, and I will continue to extend a hand."

According to the Attorney General's directives, the scope of action and the manner of exercising authority for a transition government differ from those of a regular government. A transition government is obligated to exercise its powers with restraint, particularly concerning matters that do not require urgent action during this period. The rule, also upheld by Supreme Court rulings, is to avoid creating fait accompli situations that could leave the incoming government in an irreversible position. The directives state that for matters not part of routine management, ministers must consult with their ministry's legal advisor before making a decision.