Netanyahu brings political rival Gideon Sa’ar into government: 'Patriotic and right thing to do...'
Benjamin Netanyahu, Gideon Saar
Gideon Sa’ar, leader of Israel's New Hope Party, is set to return to the Israeli government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said the two Israeli politiciansin a joint press conferenceon Sunday (Sep29) night.
Netanyahu recalled the formation of the wartime coalition on October 11, 2023, following the Hamas attacks in southern Israel, saying, “When war broke out, I immediately set about establishing a broad and stable government. I greatly appreciated it when Benny Gantz and Gideon Sa’ar joined the government and I regretted it when they left.”
“For this reason, I appreciate it that Gideon Sa’ar acceded to my request and agreed to return to the government today. This move contributes to unity among us, and unity against our enemies,” the Israeli PMsaid according to media reports.
He alsopraised Sa’ar for his willingness to return, noting his "broad vision and ability to find creative solutions to complex challenges." Acknowledging past political differences, Netanyahu said, “It is no secret that we have had disagreements in the past but since October 7 we have put all the grudges of the past behind us.”
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Sa’ar, referring to the Hamas attack, said, “Believe me, beloved citizens of Israel, since the morning of Saturday, October 7, this is meaningless to me.”
“In light of the current situation, and after consideration, I concluded that there is no point in me continuing to sit in the opposition, where the positions of most of its members on the subject of the war are different and even far removed from mine,” said Sa’ar.
“Therefore I acceded to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s request to join the government and contribute to its work in decision-making forums with my experience and abilities. This is the patriotic and right thing to do now,” he added.
Sa’ar will be joining as a minister without portfolio, reportedly having turned down an offer to serve as defence minister last week. There is speculation that Netanyahu may soon remove Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, with Sa’ar or another minister likely to take his place.
(With inputs from agencies)
