In the lead-up to Israel’s upcoming election on October 27, former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has accused current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of spearheading a politically divisive campaign that risks inciting violence against his opponents. Bennett, in an interview tied to the release of a new book on his political journey, criticized Netanyahu’s governance as increasingly authoritarian. He also condemned the pro-Netanyahu political and media networks for fostering a climate of hostility towards Netanyahu’s political adversaries.
Bennett voiced particular concerns for Gadi Eisenkot, identifying him as a significant challenger to Netanyahu. He cautioned that the persistent political attacks could prompt some individuals to perceive opposition figures as adversaries, potentially leading to violent actions. Recalling the political transition in 2021, Bennett noted that Netanyahu had warned him of a fierce political backlash should he form a government excluding Netanyahu’s allies, a prediction Bennett admitted he underestimated in terms of scale.
Turning to matters of national security, Bennett criticized Netanyahu’s administration for insufficiently addressing Iran’s advancing nuclear capabilities between 2018 and 2021. He asserted that upon assuming the role of prime minister, his government took steps to enhance intelligence and military preparedness, which he claims were crucial to Israel’s subsequent success in operations targeting Iranian interests.
Bennett has also shifted his stance on term limits for Israeli prime ministers, now advocating for them despite previously opposing the idea. As the election approaches, he indicated his willingness to collaborate with other opposition figures to prevent Netanyahu from securing another term, even if it requires him to accept a diminished role in the political landscape.