Naftali Bennett, a self-made tech millionaire and former commando, has been offered the role of Israel's next prime minister after his party, Yamina, won just seven seats in the general election. Despite being considered an ultra-nationalist and known for advocating Jewish settlement in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, Bennett has formed a coalition with centrist opposition leader Yair Lapid, ousting long-time leader Benjamin Netanyahu. His rise to power reflects the contentious issue of settlements in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and highlights Bennett's outspoken and combative approach.
Naftali Bennett: Israel's New Prime Minister
Naftali Bennett, a former software entrepreneur and ex-commando, has been sworn in as Israel's new prime minister after his right-wing Yamina party formed a coalition government with centrist opposition leader Yair Lapid.
Background
Bennett, 49, is a native of Haifa, Israel. He served in the Israeli Defense Forces as a commando and later became a successful tech entrepreneur. In 2012, he co-founded Soluto, a cloud-based software company that was acquired by Microsoft in 2015.
Bennett entered politics in 2013, joining the right-wing Jewish Home party. He was elected to the Knesset (Israeli parliament) in 2015 and served as Minister of Education and Minister of Diaspora Affairs under Benjamin Netanyahu.
In 2018, Bennett formed the Yamina party, which is considered a national-religious party. The party supports Jewish settlement in the West Bank, opposes a Palestinian state, and advocates for a tough approach towards terrorism.
Rise to Power
Bennett's rise to power is a significant shift in Israeli politics. He is the first prime minister from a party other than Likud or Labor in over a decade. His victory also marks the end of Benjamin Netanyahu's 12-year reign as prime minister.
Bennett's coalition government is a diverse group that includes parties from across the political spectrum. The coalition agreement includes a commitment to addressing economic and social issues, as well as to maintaining Israel's security.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What are Naftali Bennett's views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
Bennett is a supporter of the settlement movement in the West Bank and opposes a Palestinian state. He has stated that he believes the West Bank is part of Israel and that Palestinians should have limited autonomy.
2. What is the significance of Naftali Bennett's election as prime minister?
Bennett's election is a significant shift in Israeli politics. It marks the end of Netanyahu's long dominance and represents a new era in Israeli government.
3. What are the key policies of Naftali Bennett's coalition government?
The coalition government has agreed to address a range of issues, including economic growth, social welfare, and security.
4. How is Naftali Bennett's government different from previous Israeli governments?
Bennett's government is more diverse than previous governments and includes parties from across the political spectrum. It also marks the first time that a party other than Likud or Labor has led the government in over a decade.
5. What are the challenges facing Naftali Bennett as prime minister?
Bennett faces a number of challenges, including managing a diverse coalition government, addressing the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and dealing with regional threats.
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