Israel Harel Urges Right-Wing to Rethink Netanyahu Leadership and Broaden Political Strategy

Israel Harel, founder of the Yesha Council and a key figure in shaping Israeli settlement policy, has called on the right-wing to explore alternatives to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership and consider new strategic partnerships. In an interview with Channel 7, Harel critically assessed the Religious Zionist Party's current structure and its limited representation of the broader national-religious public, estimating the sector's potential at 12 to 14 Knesset seats, while the party barely passes the electoral threshold. He noted a lack of prominent national-religious figures outside the settlements who could strengthen the party's appeal.

Harel reiterated his long-held view that Netanyahu is not the right leader for Israel, arguing that Netanyahu's ideological consistency is weak and that his governance is driven primarily by a desire to remain in power. He cited Netanyahu's concessions to coalition partners like the ultra-Orthodox parties, which he believes risk economic collapse and security damage in the medium and long term. Harel urged the right-wing public to seriously consider replacing Netanyahu.

Addressing concerns that a government reshuffle might harm settlement expansion in Judea and Samaria, Harel referenced past national unity governments that successfully advanced settlement policies under leaders like Yitzhak Rabin. He expressed confidence that former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, if part of a right-wing government including the Religious Zionist Party, would uphold security and settlement commitments, emphasizing Eizenkot's pragmatic and security-focused approach.

Finally, Harel stressed the need for a long-term strategic vision centered on national unity and reducing mutual fears within Israeli society. He advocated outreach beyond the religious sector to secular Israelis, aiming to dispel fears of a religious dictatorship and strengthen societal cohesion.