“Netanyahu Must Go,” Says Bennett
- Speaking on Israel’s Channel 12, Bennett declared that Netanyahu’s two-decade-long rule is “not healthy” for the country.
- He accused the prime minister of bearing “heavy responsibility” for societal fractures and poor governance during wartime.
- “He must go,” Bennett stated unequivocally, though he declined to confirm whether he would run in a future election.
“He has been in power for 20 years… that’s too much,” Bennett said.
Gaza War: Military Praised, Leadership Condemned
Bennett, who briefly served as prime minister in 2021–2022, praised Israel’s military operations in Gaza and against Iranian targets but lambasted the political strategy.
- Called the military’s performance “exceptional”
- Described the Netanyahu-led government’s wartime decision-making as “a catastrophe, a disaster”
- Urged leaders to pursue a “comprehensive agreement” to free all remaining hostages in Gaza
“Leave the task of eliminating Hamas to a future government,” he added.
Background: Bennett’s Brief Premiership and Political Return Rumors
- In 2021, Bennett formed a cross-ideological coalition that ousted Netanyahu after 12 years in power.
- The coalition collapsed within a year, paving the way for Netanyahu’s return with support from far-right and ultra-Orthodox parties.
- Though currently out of politics, Bennett is rumored to be weighing a comeback. Polls suggest he could again challenge Netanyahu’s leadership.
No elections are scheduled before late 2026, but early elections are common in Israel’s volatile political landscape.
Bennett Takes Credit for Iran Strikes
Bennett also claimed his administration laid the foundation for Israel’s recent air campaign against Iranian nuclear and military sites, calling it a “very good” and “necessary” move.
“The offensive would not have been possible without groundwork laid by my government,” he claimed.
Visual Suggestions:
- Photo: Bennett and Netanyahu during past parliamentary sessions
- Infographic: Timeline of Gaza war and Israeli leadership shifts
- Quote Card: “Netanyahu must go” – Naftali Bennett
- Chart: Public opinion on Netanyahu vs. Bennett
