Israel’s political crisis ends as Netanyahu becomes prime minister again
On Thursday, Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in as the prime minister of Israel for the fourth time. He has already served as prime minister for a longer period than any other person in history, having been first elected in 1996 and serving in the role until 1999, then again from 2009 until the present day. During his tenure as Finance Minister from 2003 to 2005, Netanyahu implemented pro-capitalism policies, including significant tax cuts, which helped reduce Israel’s debt-to-GDP ratio and increase foreign investment.
Upon being sworn in, Netanyahu addressed critics who have opposed his coalition for including nationalist politicians such as Bezalal Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir. He defended the coalition and the democratic process, stating that losing elections is not the end of democracy, but rather a fundamental aspect of it. He also pointed out that the opposition should respect the majority’s decision and stop rebelling against the elected government.
The Biden administration has expressed concern about the potential inclusion of Ben Gvir, the leader of the Right-wing party Otzma Yehudit, in the Israeli government, stating that it would be “a huge problem” for the US. However, some in Israel have resisted the idea of outside influence on the country’s elections and politics. Brigadier General Tzvika Fogel, who is secular but a member of Gvir’s party, emphasized the importance of strengthening Israeli sovereignty and governance, and expanding settlements.