Evacuee Demands National Unity Government Amid Security Threats

Avi Farhan, an evacuee from the former Israeli settlements of Yamit and Eli Sinai, protested outside the President's Residence in Jerusalem early Wednesday, calling for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, and other Zionist party leaders to form a national emergency government. Farhan, who traveled from his home in Nof Yam at 4 a.m., urged leaders to set aside political boycotts and disputes to address security threats from Gaza, the North, and Iran, and to cooperate with the United States on Iran's nuclear program.

Farhan, who experienced the evacuations of Yamit and Eli Sinai, emphasized the need for leaders to unite for a common purpose, citing past national unity governments formed by leaders like Yitzhak Shamir, Shimon Peres, and Yitzhak Rabin. He argued that the Iranian nuclear threat requires broad cooperation extending beyond Israel's borders, stating that the issue threatens the entire world and that an Israeli unity government would strengthen the nation's standing internationally.

Addressing the political obstacles, Farhan specifically mentioned Avigdor Lieberman's opposition to sitting with Netanyahu. He implored leaders to cease boycotts and hatred, asserting that the public desires a Zionist emergency government to end wars on multiple fronts, unite the nation, and tackle economic and political challenges, as well as rising antisemitism. Farhan stressed focusing on the leaders' shared responsibility rather than individual personalities, stating that party disputes should not dictate actions during times of national security and internal hardship.

Farhan warned that those who obstruct a unity government would be judged by the public and history. He expressed deep concern over the polarization within Israeli society, describing it as a near "civil war" and a "danger to existence." He linked internal divisions to security concerns, suggesting that extremist elements could exploit the situation to attack Israeli communities. Farhan also voiced apprehension about the potential strengthening of Arab parties and election outcomes, criticizing past Israeli government policies towards the Negev Bedou. However, he clarified that his warning was not directed at all Arab citizens of Israel but at extremists who might plan actions similar to those of October 7th in other Israeli towns.

Regarding the possibility of new elections, Farhan expressed reservations, hoping they would be avoided but acknowledging they might occur if unity is not achieved. He pointed to shifting party positions and stated that avoiding further elections depends on leaders' willingness to change their approach, not necessarily to abandon their stances, but to cease boycotts and explore joint government formation. His core message, carried from Nof Yam to Jerusalem wrapped in an Israeli flag, was a plea: "Establish a national emergency government, establish a Zionist government."