Netanyahu, Eisenkot must reach a deal to end Israel's political deadlock - opinion

Israel urgently needs a broad national government, not a narrow coalition held hostage by sectoral parties, as stated in a recent opinion piece. The author argues that a coalition representing the majority of Israelis who agree on strategic issues should be formed, focusing on common goals rather than political personal rivalries.

Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett, Avigdor Liberman, Yair Lapid, and Yair Golan are urged to reconsider their refusal to serve under a Netanyahu-led government. In return, Netanyahu should accept a national-unity arrangement that includes his retirement from politics after two years.

The author points out that most Israelis agree on the urgent need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, confront Hamas and Hezbollah, prevent Gaza or Judea and Samaria from becoming terrorist strongholds, and maintain Israel as both Jewish and democratic. There is also consensus on the necessity of economic and educational reform, judicial reform, and a more balanced distribution of military and civilian national service.

However, the current political discourse often prioritizes personalities over principles, leading to extreme anti-Bibi rhetoric.

The author suggests a two-year agreement to rebuild Israel, which would include a broad Zionist coalition with measurable commitments and deadlines. This agreement would cover national security, universal service, economic and educational reform, judicial and governmental reform, and accountability for the October 7 incident. Importantly, it would include an explicit leadership rotation, with Netanyahu serving as prime minister for two years before retiring from politics.