'Diplomatic emergency': Bennett presents plan for restoring Israel's position in US, Middle East
Bennett described Israel's situation as a "diplomatic emergency," saying that "foreign leaders are making decisions about our future, hostile countries are shaping our borders."
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett unveiled his foreign policy blueprint ahead of the elections, emphasizing the importance of restoring Israel's image in the eyes of Americans, strengthening ties with Washington, and positioning Israel as a key player in the Middle East. Bennett declared that his party has a comprehensive strategy to enhance Israel's standing among US citizens, asserting that strong US relations are crucial for victories in both the battlefield and diplomacy.
He commended President Donald Trump's support but lamented the lack of a counterpart in the current Israeli government to achieve diplomatic successes, vowing that under his leadership, America would have a strong ally in Israel.
Bennett characterized the current situation as a diplomatic emergency, citing the IDF's battlefield triumphs but an ongoing deficit in diplomatic achievements. He blamed external forces for dictating Israel's future and promised to declare a diplomatic emergency if his party assumes power. On Iran, Bennett pledged to revive his previous "octopus strategy," exacting direct costs from Iran rather than merely targeting its proxies.
He also vowed to renew efforts to weaken Iran's regime, a plan that was abandoned by the current administration. Regarding Gaza, Bennett stressed the importance of dismantling Hamas, proposing a partnership with Egypt and other nations to achieve this goal. On the northern front, he advocated for a dual strategy of economic and diplomatic pressure against Hezbollah, maintaining Israeli control over the security zone until the group ceases its arms.
Bennett outlined plans to integrate Israel into broader regional economic initiatives, highlighting the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to inject billions of dollars into the Israeli economy and bolster its strategic position. He underscored the necessity of addressing Israel's strained relations with Europe, stating that opposition leader Yair Lapid and he are already collaborating with European governments to delay adverse decisions.
Bennett identified internal strengthening as the foundation of Israel's international resurgence, criticizing Netanyahu for remarks he deemed as a "blood libel." In closing, Bennett emphasized that a diplomatic renaissance must start with an internal renaissance in Israel.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
