By Ben Kerrigan-
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former IDF general Benny Gantz, leader of the opposition National Unity party, have announced an agreement to establish an emergency government to address the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
One of the key elements of this agreement is the creation of a small war cabinet, which will be responsible for directing the efforts against Hamas.
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This cabinet, as demanded by Gantz, will consist of Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Gantz himself. The inclusion of these three prominent leaders signifies a unified approach to dealing with the conflict and underscores the seriousness of the situation.
In an effort to maintain transparency and ensure that the decisions made are well-informed, former IDF general and National Unity Member of Knesset (MK) Gadi Eisenkot, along with Minister Ron Dermer, will serve as observers within the war cabinet. Their experience and expertise in military matters will be invaluable in guiding the cabinet’s deliberations.
Broader Security Cabinet Inclusion
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During the war, five members of the National Unity party will be integrated into the broader security cabinet, which typically operates under every government. In addition to Gantz and Eisenkot, MK Gideon Sa’ar and two other National Unity members, who are yet to be determined, will join this important decision-making body.
The inclusion of these members from the opposition party is a clear message that, in the face of adversity, Israel stands united to defend its interests and citizens.
A notable aspect of this agreement is the reserved position in the war cabinet for Opposition Leader Yair Lapid. Lapid, who has consistently advocated for a more centrist and inclusive approach to government, had refused to join the government if far-right parties such as Religious Zionism and Otzma Yehudit remained part of it. This provision reflects the importance of maintaining a diverse and representative government, even in the midst of a crisis.
In order to ensure that all efforts are concentrated on managing the war with Hamas, the agreement specifies that no legislation in the Knesset or government resolutions unrelated to the conflict will be advanced during this period.
This commitment to prioritizing national security over political matters highlights the dedication of Israeli leaders to protect the nation’s interests and citizens in the face of external threats.
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