Netanyahu Out as Israel’s Prime Minister

Benjamin Netanyahu had been Israel’s Prime Minister for 15 years, continuously since 2009, until today. Naftali Bennet’s coalition took power by one vote in the Knesset.

ABC News:

Benjamin Netanyahu has been ousted as Israel’s prime minister and Naftali Bennett is now the country’s new leader following Knesset’s vote Sunday.

The vote was close: 60 in favor, 59 against (including one of Bennett’s own party members).

Under the coalition deal, right-wing Yamina party leader Bennett becomes Israel’s next prime minister for the next two years. In August 2023 Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid takes over for the following two years.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu looks on during a special session of the Knesset, Israe…Read More
In a speech to the Knesset, Bennett outlined several points. He said that renewing the nuclear deal with Iran is a mistake that will “once again lend legitimacy to one of the most discriminatory and violent regimes in the world.”

He also added that Israel will not allow Iran to be equipped with nuclear weapons: “Israel is not party to the agreement, and will maintain full freedom to act.”

On Gaza, he said he hopes the ceasefire in the south is maintained: “But if Hamas again chooses the path of violence against Israeli civilians, it will encounter a wall of iron.”

He also thanked President Joe Biden, for standing alongside Israel during the last operation in Gaza and for his longstanding commitment to the security of Israel: “My government will make an effort to deepen and nurture relations with our friends in both parties — bipartisan. If there are disputes, we will manage them with fundamental trust, and mutual respect,” he said.

Netanyahu led for 15 years altogether, continuously since 2009. Bennett was his protege, The Associated Press reported.

Bennett will lead a disparate coalition of parties from the political right, left and center. Netanyahu is slated to become the opposition leader, the AP reported.