Jerusalem:The opening session of the 26th Israeli Knesset on Tuesday was marked by intense political debate, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clashed with opposition leaders over the potential inclusion of Arab parties in government formation.
According to Maan News Agency, Netanyahu, during his speech, strongly criticized the idea of forming a government supported by the Joint List and the Ra'am party, asserting that these parties do not acknowledge Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state. He also cautioned ultra-Orthodox parties against aligning with a government led by the Change camp.
During the session, former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett interrupted Netanyahu to demand an official inquiry into the events of October 7 and questioned the involvement of advisors with ties to Qatar. Additionally, Knesset member Gilad Kariv criticized Netanyahu at the conclusion of his speech.
Gadi Eisenkot, head of the Yesher party, condemned Netanyahu's address as divisive and detrimental to national security, urging the formation of a national emergency government. Meanwhile, Democratic Party leader Yair Golan, after exiting the Knesset during Netanyahu's speech, accused him of inciting against the Arab public and clinging to power, predicting the emergence of a reformist government.
The Change Camp continues to push for an alternative government, with the Yeshar party collecting over 61 signatures to replace Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana with Matan Kahana. They also introduced draft laws for an inquiry into October 7 events, a term limit for the head of government, and the repeal of certain judicial changes from the previous administration.
Conversely, Netanyahu advocated for a national unity government, emphasizing the need to address international pressures concerning Iran and urging political unity to tackle security challenges.