Former Israeli Prime Minister(PM) Naftali Bennett has launched a scathing critique of Benjamin Netanyahu’s prolonged tenure as Prime Minister, stating that it is “too much” and “not healthy” that Netanyahu “has been in power for 20 years”.
In a candid interview with Israel’s Channel 12, Bennett expressed his concerns about the deepening divisions within Israeli society, for which he holds Netanyahu heavily responsible. Bennett’s remarks underscore the growing rifts within Israel, with Netanyahu facing intense opposition from certain quarters, particularly over his handling of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Bennett’s assertion that Netanyahu “must go” is significant, given their complex and often tumultuous relationship. In 2021, Bennett formed an unlikely coalition with Netanyahu’s critics, which successfully ousted Netanyahu from the premiership after 12 consecutive years in office.
However, Bennett’s own government proved short-lived, collapsing after approximately a year and paving the way for Netanyahu’s return to power. Netanyahu’s current backing from far-right and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties has enabled him to maintain a strong support base, despite facing vocal opposition from those demanding his departure.
The criticism leveled by Bennett highlights the intense polarization within Israeli politics, with Netanyahu’s leadership style and policies coming under increasing scrutiny. As the conflict in Gaza continues to have far-reaching consequences, Netanyahu’s opponents are growing more vocal in their demands for change.
Bennett’s comments are likely to fuel the ongoing debate about Netanyahu’s future as Prime Minister and the prospects for a more stable and inclusive government in Israel. The situation remains fluid, with the trajectory of Israeli politics hanging in the balance as the country navigates its complex and often contentious domestic and foreign policy landscape.