Bennett discusses security policy, belief that he can convince Egypt to fix Gaza standoff
SPECIAL PROFILE: Former prime minister Naftali Bennett lays out his security policy for Gaza, Iran, Lebanon, and Syria, were he to be elected prime minister, and how he would differ from Netanyahu.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism from challengers, including former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, on his handling of war and peace. Bennett argues that Netanyahu has been passive in diplomatic efforts since October 7, relying solely on military actions like bombing and invading Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Bennett believes that Egypt holds the key to resolving the Gaza standoff, a view that Netanyahu has largely ignored.
He accuses Bennett's coalition partners, Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, of damaging Israel's relations with Egypt and Jordan through their extremist actions. Bennett proposes regular meetings between Israel and Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, which have been rare under Netanyahu due to Smotrich and Ben-Gvir's provocations.
If elected, Bennett claims he would restore positive relations with Sisi, leading to Egyptian involvement in combating Hamas. He envisions a joint strategy involving Egypt, Jordan, and Abraham Accords countries, potentially leading to the Hamas disarming under international supervision. Bennett opposes the Palestinian Authority's direct involvement in Gaza, but is open to strengthening it in the West Bank to build goodwill with the US and Egypt.
Despite skepticism about Egypt's willingness to intervene, Bennett emphasizes the importance of Egypt's leadership in restoring stability and order in the region.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
