Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett admits past political mistakes but vows a disciplined return, declaring himself a hawkish, pragmatic leader ready to restore Israel’s strength and unity.
In a candid and defiant address to supporters in Omer, former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett acknowledged his past political missteps while declaring his determination to build a new, stronger, and unapologetically right-wing movement for Israel’s future.
“My choice of a slate was a mistake in the past, and I’ve learned the lesson,” Bennett admitted before a packed hall. “For the past year, I’ve been working carefully, vetting people one by one — this time there will be good, loyal, and capable patriots.”
According to a report by Walla!, Bennett didn’t hold back his criticism of the current government:
“For three years, it’s been endless quarrels and shouting — the country stopped functioning. They’ve given up on the Negev, surrendered our borders, and allowed everything to become more expensive. This isn’t leadership; it’s political chaos.”
Reasserting his ideological stance, Bennett made it clear that his security doctrine remains firmly nationalist and Zionist.
“Territory must not be handed over to Arabs, and there must be no attempts to establish a Palestinian state,” he said. “I’m very hawkish on security matters — but also liberal and pragmatic when it comes to improving Israelis’ daily lives.”
Bennett’s remarks mark a strategic re-entry into Israeli politics, positioning him as a unifying right-wing alternative—strong on defense, yet pragmatic on governance. His renewed message resonates with voters frustrated by political gridlock, rising prices, and security neglect.
Insiders say Bennett’s behind-the-scenes work over the past year signals a well-organized return, aimed at bringing together ideological conservatives, national liberals, and disillusioned centrists under a “responsible Zionist right” banner.
If successful, Bennett could once again reshape Israel’s political landscape — this time with a disciplined, battle-tested team and a clear message: security first, unity always.
