Netanyahu's Position Weakens Amidst Israeli Government Formation Efforts
As new government formation efforts continue in Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political standing is weakening against the opposition.
As a new Israeli parliament (Knesset), shaped by the events of October 7, prepares to convene, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is struggling to prevent the formation of an opposition-led government. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has tasked former Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot with forming a government.
Highlights
- Netanyahu is calling for national unity after the opposition bloc edged out his ruling coalition in the October election.
- Netanyahu claims there is a "risk of civil war" if a government is formed with the support of Arab parties, criticizing the opposition.
- Ultra-Orthodox parties, despite traditionally supporting Netanyahu, are reportedly considering joining an Eisenkot-led government.
- Netanyahu faces pressure regarding his political and personal future due to ongoing corruption trials and alleged failures prior to the October 7 attacks.
- Many new Knesset members are directly connected to the October 7 events, increasing expectations for Netanyahu to be held accountable.
Details
Netanyahu claimed in social media posts that Israel faces a "civil war" if a government is formed with the support of Arab parties. He also appealed to the leaders of the successful opposition bloc, urging them to form a single unified government under his leadership, including Ultra-Orthodox parties and his far-right allies. Former Israeli government adviser Daniel Levy described these statements as "a game, an attempt to gain leverage."
With the new Knesset set to be sworn in on Tuesday, the role of the Ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) parties is gaining prominence. It is alleged that United Torah Judaism (UTJ), one of these parties that traditionally supported Netanyahu, is preparing to back Eisenkot. Israeli pollster Mitchell Barak stated that Netanyahu is negotiating from a weakened position and that Eisenkot, with UTJ, could secure 67 seats, providing a working majority.
Why it matters
Netanyahu's political future is significantly imperiled by his ongoing corruption trials and alleged failures leading up to the October 7 attacks. The direct connection of many new Knesset members to the October 7 events creates strong pressure for the government to investigate accountability. The opposition's aim to initiate a state inquiry into Netanyahu's policies marks a critical juncture for him.