Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar Calls 2021 Government Experiment a Failure, Supports Netanyahu Amid Regional Tensions

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar spoke on August 22, 2026, in an interview on the program "Meet the Press," sharply criticizing the 2021 "change government" in which he participated, calling it a failed experiment irrelevant to the post-October 7 reality. Sa’ar said the government did not succeed in handling key issues such as West Bank regulations and family reunifications, and warned against repeating that political approach.

Addressing tensions with Turkey, Sa’ar emphasized Israel’s preference for diplomacy and stability in Syria, rejecting Turkish military expansion southward. He acknowledged Turkish President Erdogan’s provocative rhetoric but insisted Israel has no interest in escalating conflict. Sa’ar distanced himself from recent inflammatory tweets by Israel’s Defense Minister, stating he had not seen them and reaffirmed a cautious, measured approach to security.

Sa’ar also explained his political shift to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing the security challenges Israel faced after October 7, 2023. He praised Netanyahu’s leadership during the war and argued that former leaders Benny Gantz, Gadi Eizenkot, Naftali Bennett, and Yair Lapid would not have managed the crisis as effectively. Sa’ar highlighted his participation in the war cabinet and the diplomatic efforts that weakened Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran’s regional influence.

On judicial reform, Sa’ar expressed support for changes and said he brought a compromise proposal on judicial appointments alongside Justice Minister Yariv Levin. He rejected claims that the reform threatens democracy and criticized political opponents for using the issue as a culture war. Regarding the contentious ultra-Orthodox conscription law, Sa’ar advocated for practical solutions including mandatory service for those not studying Torah and professional tracks, warning against politicizing the issue.

During the interview, Sa’ar clashed with journalist Ben Caspit, accusing him of politicizing the debate. He also addressed rumors about his political standing within Likud, denying fears over primary elections and affirming his strong support base. Sa’ar confirmed his backing of Netanyahu as the best candidate to lead Israel, dismissing speculation about alternative leadership plans.