Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, centre, agreed the deal on Wednesday with Benny Gantz, head of the opposition National Unity party © Haim Zach/GPO/dpa

In a recent development within the new unity government of Israel, opposition leader Yair Lapid has reportedly demanded the exclusion of far-right members from former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet. This demand has fueled tensions within the government, particularly over the position of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, a controversial figure known for his far-right views.

The unity government, which came into power in the wake of lengthy negotiations and political maneuvering, was hailed as a potential solution to the ongoing political gridlock that had gripped Israel. However, internal disagreements between government members, including those hailing from opposing ends of the political spectrum, threaten the stability of the coalition.

Benny Gantz, who serves as the Minister of Defense, has been a vocal critic of Itamar Ben Gvir’s inclusion in Netanyahu’s cabinet. Ben Gantz’s criticisms came to the forefront during protests against Netanyahu’s judicial reforms in July, where he raised concerns about entrusting the security of Israeli citizens to a figure with far-right affiliations.

“Netanyahu will not be able to say that he did not know. When he entrusts the security of the citizens of Israel to Ben Gvir, he abandons them,” Gantz declared during the demonstrations.

This issue has not only become a point of contention between government members but also highlights the broader ideological divisions and challenges the unity government faces as it navigates the complex and polarized political landscape of Israel.

As the unity government grapples with the inclusion of far-right members and their roles in shaping national policy, it remains to be seen how the leadership will address these internal tensions and work together to address the diverse challenges facing the nation. The coming months may prove pivotal in determining the government’s ability to maintain unity in the face of these ideological divides.

Source: with agencies