Former IDF Spokesman Criticizes Naftali Bennett Over Qatar Remarks, Warns of Damage to Opposition Bloc

Former IDF spokesman Avi Benayahu sharply criticized Naftali Bennett on Wednesday evening for his statement that "anyone who does not understand that Qatar is an enemy state is unfit to lead." Benayahu suggested Bennett's comment was likely a jab at Gadi Eisenkot and warned it could harm the anti-Netanyahu opposition bloc. Writing on X, Benayahu called Bennett's remark "unfortunate" and "a serious blow to the heart of the opposition bloc," adding that it came from emotion rather than reason.

Benayahu referenced Eisenkot's position that the decision on Qatar's status should be made through careful staff work rather than political gimmicks, expressing support for Eisenkot and stating, "He is right." He also predicted that the public spat between the two party leaders might backfire on Bennett, noting that the Likud party could use Bennett's statement against him in the upcoming election campaign.

Addressing the leaders of the opposition bloc, Benayahu urged them to overcome their egos and focus on the people and the country rather than personal or political interests. He warned that if internal conflicts continue, the bloc could face serious setbacks even before conducting a post-election review, emphasizing the need for unity to avoid failure.