Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed the head of a far-right political party as defense minister of his caretaker government, a spokesman for the premier’s right-wing Likud party said on Friday, Reuters reports.
Naftali Bennett, who heads the New Right party, will take the defense portfolio from Netanyahu, who has simultaneously served as premier and defense minister for nearly a year.
The Likud spokesman said in a statement:
“The appointment will be brought to the government for approval at an upcoming government meeting”.
Netanyahu appoints Bennet defense minister – https://t.co/2meNfhvxwn
— Ynetnews (@ynetnews) November 8, 2019
Israeli politics is deadlocked after two inconclusive elections this year. Former military chief Benny Gantz’s centrist Blue and White party emerged neck and neck with Netanyahu following a September vote, and both leaders have struggled to put together a ruling coalition.
Gantz, who was asked by Israel’s president to forge a coalition after Netanyahu failed to do so, has less than two weeks left to form a government.
If he fails, the country could be headed towards an unprecedented third election although a smaller party might be given a chance before that.
Cynical and frightened — why Netanyahu appointed Bennett as Defense Minister – Mondoweiss https://t.co/bUaNOvs0jx pic.twitter.com/S6CE2Ii1tC
— Therese (@Th2shay) November 9, 2019
Netanyahu has led a caretaker government throughout the political turmoil.
Bennett’s appointment appeared to be an attempt by Netanyahu to stymie Gantz’s coalition negotiations, which include discussions with right-wing parties.
Blue and White said in a statement:
“Appointing a ‘temporary placeholder’ to the position of Defense Minister is unworthy of the most sensitive establishment in the state”.
#Israel's Premier Benjamin Netanyahu said that Naftali Bennett would be appointed defense minister and their parties would unite, as the political system remained deadlocked after two inconclusive elections. https://t.co/Yr60B38NGs
— Saudi Gazette (@Saudi_Gazette) November 9, 2019
Bennett previously served in Netanyahu’s cabinet as education minister. A former settler leader, he advocates tough action against Palestinians in Gaza and unusual tactics towards Israel’s arch-foe Iran and its proxy Hezbollah.
Netanyahu took over the defense portfolio following the resignation of then-chief Avigdor Lieberman, who is stepping down in November 2018 helped plunge the country towards snap elections in April.
Netanyahu and Bennett also agreed to form a parliamentary alliance, the Likud spokesman said, adding that Bennett agreed another person would be appointed defense chief if a unity government or narrow right-wing coalition is formed.
(Middle East Monitor, PC, Social Media)
