Netanyahu Calls for Unity Government Including Haredi Parties

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video Monday urging the formation of a "unity government" that would include all Zionist parties, including the ultra-Orthodox factions. He stated that such a government is a "necessary need" and a "need of the hour," emphasizing the impossibility of forming a government dependent on "Hamas supporters" while confronting Iran and radical Islamic elements. Netanyahu asserted that his Likud party, as the largest faction, should naturally lead this government.

Netanyahu's call comes amid ongoing negotiations between the "change bloc" and the ultra-Orthodox parties. A poll cited by Kikar HaShabbat indicates that 42% of ultra-Orthodox respondents believe their parties should remain with the right-wing bloc and await a Netanyahu-led government, while 28.5% favor joining a "change government" in exchange for a conscription law arrangement. A senior figure in United Torah Judaism told Kikar HaShabbat that the coming week will clarify the political system's willingness to compromise on the conscription issue.

Meanwhile, President Isaac Herzog formally tasked Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the National Unity Party, with forming a government on Sunday, following his recommendation by 67 Knesset members. Eisenkot has 28 days to assemble a coalition, with a deadline of December 6, 2026. In parallel, Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, met and expressed confidence in their ability to form a stable four-year government.

Minister of Defense Israel Katz also echoed calls for unity, stating at a memorial ceremony that "for the great missions ahead of us, we must be united." He added that while debate is permitted, "when the country's security is at stake, we must know how to rise above disagreements." The article also notes escalating concerns over the Iranian threat, with Katz warning of Iran's renewed efforts to obtain nuclear weapons and the US increasing its security posture in the Middle East.