Hili Trooper Rules Out Supporting Netanyahu Government, Calls for Leadership Change After October 7

Hili Trooper, a Knesset member from the Zionist Home - Reservists party, stated in a 103FM interview on Wednesday that his party will not support a government led by Benjamin Netanyahu. Trooper emphasized that he refuses to join a coalition reliant on non-Zionist parties and insisted that all officials who were in office on October 7 must step down. He said, "I will not concede Netanyahu 61 seats, as this government depends on non-Zionist forces. I cannot be part of such a coalition."

Trooper highlighted his party's recent rise in polls as evidence of a significant public desire for an alternative political option. He noted that around 300,000 Israelis feel unrepresented by current parties and seek a party that unites Israeli society, demands shared responsibility, and addresses neglected everyday issues. He also mentioned a post-October 7 yearning for change.

Regarding potential political alliances ahead of elections, Trooper did not rule out cooperation but said no concrete plans exist yet. He denied claims of acting on behalf of former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, with whom he maintains mutual respect but no recent contact. Trooper's goal is to form a "broad Zionist government" after the elections.

Addressing concerns from the right about possible evacuation of West Bank settlements, Trooper dismissed such fears, stating that any legal and coordinated settlement supporting Israel's security would continue. He criticized the current government for allying with draft dodgers while reservists repeatedly serve on the front lines.

Finally, Trooper criticized Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and the Religious Zionist Party for focusing mainly on settlement issues, noting that the party previously championed social gaps and societal unity, voices he feels are now largely absent.