Government in Turmoil: Cabinet Member Attacks Netanyahu, Threats to Leave Coalition Over Education Funding

Cabinet Member Gadi Eisenkot Criticizes Netanyahu’s Leadership

In a bold move on Wednesday, National Unity Party (NUP) MK Gadi Eisenkot launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of failing to govern effectively and bring security back to the public. Eisenkot specifically criticized Netanyahu’s handling of the truth and his performance on issues related to Iran and Saudi Arabia.

The criticism did not go unnoticed, as Likud quickly fired back, accusing Eisenkot and NUP leader Benny Gantz of seeking excuses to end the ongoing conflict without achieving its goals and ultimately topple the government. Gantz had previously set a deadline for Netanyahu to meet certain conditions, or else NUP would withdraw from the government.

The exchange of words escalated further, with National Unity hitting back at Likud, accusing them of focusing on political maneuvering rather than actual achievements on the battlefield. Labor Party MK Rabbi Gilad Kariv also joined in, harshly criticizing Netanyahu’s leadership and calling for NUP to withdraw from the government and push for elections.

Meanwhile, the coalition faced another challenge as United Torah Judaism Chairman Moshe Gafni threatened to leave the government if issues regarding funding for Ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) education were not addressed. Gafni highlighted a case of a Haredi kindergarten teacher in Kiryat Shmona who was not receiving a salary, citing discrimination and deprivation in the education system.

Despite the tensions within the government, Prime Minister Netanyahu met with opposition leader Yair Lapid on Wednesday, indicating a willingness to engage in dialogue amidst the growing discontent. The situation remains fluid as political dynamics continue to evolve within the Israeli government.