Netanyahu's Unity Call Sparks Knesset Scandal Amid Attacks on Arab Parties

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's first speech after the swearing-in of the 26th Knesset devolved into a major controversy. While calling for a government of national unity, Netanyahu dedicated a significant portion of his address to attacking Arab parties and the opposition negotiating with Ra'am. In response, former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett questioned Netanyahu about Qatari advisors, Yair Golan demonstratively left the hall, and Itamar Ben-Gvir engaged in a verbal spat with Bennett.

Netanyahu began by warning of the Iranian threat, stating that Iran's nuclear ambitions must be countered by overthrowing its regime. He predicted international pressure on Israel to accept a nuclear Iran and warned against compromising military achievements. "In the face of these threats, we must do one thing in this building: put aside all other considerations and form a government of national unity," Netanyahu declared. "Only it can cope with such enormous challenges."

However, he immediately pivoted to criticizing the opposition and its dealings with Arab parties. "To those who want to form a government that includes supporters of terror, who hate Israel, or depend on them, I ask: are you ready to depend on those whose goal is the destruction of the Jewish state? Are you ready to entrust them with the fate of our country?" he rhetorically asked. Netanyahu specifically targeted Ra'am and the Joint List, asserting no fundamental difference in their views on Israel's future, claiming both aim for an Islamic or Palestinian state instead of a Jewish one. He accused Mansour Abbas of seeking a "democratic caliphate instead of Israel."

Netanyahu's sharp remarks provoked outrage. Yair Golan walked out, and Gilad Kariv was removed after arguing with the Prime Minister. Naftali Bennett then interjected, challenging Netanyahu's call for an investigation into foreign election interference by asking about an investigation into October 7th and "your Qatari advisors," and why Qatar wasn't declared an enemy state. Ben-Gvir defended Netanyahu, accusing Bennett of wanting to sit with the Joint List. Sara Netanyahu also joined the fray, shouting at Bennett about "the union of employees."

Netanyahu also addressed ultra-Orthodox factions negotiating with the opposition, cautioning them against forming a narrow government. He stressed the importance of preserving Israel's Jewish identity and mentioned plans for legislation regarding Torah scholars and conscription with broad support. "I have no doubt that you will be promised mountains and valleys. But a minute after, God forbid, a government led by the left is formed, all these promises will disappear," he warned.

Following the speech, Gadi Eisenkot called Netanyahu's address "insane, divisive, full of hate, and shameful," accusing him of abusing the Knesset swearing-in ceremony. Bennett stated, "Unity is not built this way." Golan claimed Netanyahu cannot accept his electoral defeat and is attacking the Arab population to cling to power, predicting Netanyahu would soon be in opposition and a "government of correction and salvation" would emerge.