Lawmaker to Pitch Unity Government From Tent Outside Knesset

Member of Knesset Elisha Madan of the Likud party announced his intention to pitch a tent outside the Knesset building and reside in it as a public appeal for a broad national unity government. Madan made the announcement in a social media video, urging elected officials to adopt the spirit of unity and cooperation demonstrated by Israeli society in recent years. "I came to the Knesset to help this nation remain one nation," Madan stated in the video, emphasizing that preserving national unity is central to his public mission and that he wishes to bring this spirit into the parliament.

Madan, who was sworn in as a Knesset member just days ago, was severely wounded in battle in Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza, losing both his legs and four fellow soldiers. During his swearing-in ceremony, he stood despite his injuries, drawing significant applause. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged Madan at the ceremony, calling him "the hero of Israel" and noting how the "house trembled from the applause" when Madan stood.

Netanyahu himself has called for a national unity government, stating it is "the order of the hour and the will of the majority of the people." Madan's call comes amid ongoing negotiations between the "change bloc" and ultra-Orthodox parties concerning an alternative government. The Likud party is reportedly considering nominating Madan for Speaker of the Knesset to challenge the opposition's candidate, Matan Kahana, a move intended to create a complex political and public relations challenge for the change bloc.

Netanyahu had previously reserved the 11th spot on the Likud's list for the 26th Knesset for Madan. The party highlighted Madan's personal story, as a founder of the settlement of Avigail in Hebron, as symbolizing the spirit of heroism and dedication shown by IDF soldiers during the war.