Former Israeli PM Naftali Bennett Calls for Netanyahu to Step Down, Avoids Confirming Political Comeback
Naftali Bennett, Israel’s former prime minister, has publicly called for Benjamin Netanyahu to leave office, saying his long tenure has contributed to deep societal divisions. Speaking in a televised interview with Israel’s Channel 12 on Saturday, Bennett avoided confirming whether he plans to run again but was clear in his criticism of the current government.
“Netanyahu has been in power for 20 years — that’s too much. It’s not healthy,” said Bennett.
“He bears heavy responsibility for the divisions in Israeli society.”
Bennett’s remarks reflect growing discontent with Netanyahu’s leadership, especially in light of his controversial handling of the ongoing Gaza war, which began in October 2023 after Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel. While Netanyahu retains a strong support base, he also faces fierce opposition calling for his resignation.
A Complex Political History and Possible Comeback
Bennett, a right-wing politician, briefly led Israel in 2021 as part of an unlikely coalition that included opponents of Netanyahu. That government, which also included current opposition leader Yair Lapid, managed to oust Netanyahu after 12 consecutive years in power.
However, the fragile coalition collapsed within a year, leading to snap elections. Netanyahu returned to power with the backing of far-right and ultra-Orthodox parties.
Though Bennett stepped away from politics, rumors of a comeback have gained traction. Recent polls suggest he could mount a viable challenge to Netanyahu, although no elections are scheduled until late 2026 — though early elections are common in Israel’s volatile political landscape.
Praise for Military, Criticism of Political Leadership
During the interview, Bennett also addressed Israel’s recent strikes on Iranian nuclear and military targets, calling the campaign both “very good” and “necessary.” He claimed his short-lived government laid the groundwork for those operations.
In contrast, he described the Netanyahu-led government’s political leadership during the war in Gaza as “a catastrophe, a disaster,” despite praising the Israeli military’s performance as “exceptional.”
Bennett called for a comprehensive agreement to secure the release of all remaining hostages in Gaza and criticized the current government’s “indecisiveness.”
“Leave the task of eliminating Hamas to a future government,” he said, urging Netanyahu’s administration to focus on immediate humanitarian priorities.
Avoids Committing to Election Run
Despite widespread speculation about a political return, Bennett declined to confirm whether he would contest the next election.
His refusal to answer questions about a potential run leaves the door open, even as his criticism of Netanyahu adds to mounting pressure on the prime minister amid war, domestic unrest, and political instability.
