Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has criticized current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for leading a divisive political strategy that he believes could heighten the risk of violence against Netanyahu’s political opponents as Israel’s election on October 27 approaches. In a recent interview tied to the release of a book about his political career, Bennett described Netanyahu’s leadership as increasingly authoritarian and accused networks supportive of Netanyahu in politics and media of spreading hostile rhetoric against his adversaries.
Bennett singled out Gadi Eisenkot as a prominent challenger to Netanyahu, expressing concern that ongoing political attacks could prompt some individuals to perceive opposition politicians as enemies, potentially leading to acts of violence. Reflecting on the power transition in 2021, Bennett recalled Netanyahu’s warning that forming a government with anti-Netanyahu parties would trigger an intense political backlash, which Bennett admitted he had underestimated.
Addressing the issue of Iran, Bennett criticized Netanyahu’s government for not adequately preparing for Iran’s advancing nuclear capabilities between 2018 and 2021. He asserted that during his tenure as prime minister, his government bolstered intelligence and military planning, which later played a vital role in Israel’s successful operations against Iranian targets.
Furthermore, Bennett stated he has revised his stance on term limits for Israeli prime ministers, now advocating for them despite his previous opposition to the idea. With the election looming, Bennett expressed readiness to collaborate with other opposition figures to block another Netanyahu-led administration, even if it requires him to adopt a less prominent political role.