Former adviser says Netanyahu feels panic amid coalition talks

Former adviser Nir Hefetz told radio station 103FM that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is experiencing anxiety over the possibility that Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot could replace him as prime minister. Hefetz said panic is influencing Netanyahu's decision-making and described a constant stream of urgent phone calls from Netanyahu's wife Sara and son Yair during periods of political uncertainty.

"Panic is a major factor in his decision-making," Hefetz said.

He added that the atmosphere in the prime minister's office would be evident to an observer, noting that such pressure is typical when Netanyahu's personal standing is at risk. Hefetz suggested that losing power would be especially difficult for Netanyahu and his family, who value the respect they receive from world leaders.

Regarding the call for a national unity government, Hefetz argued that the closer Eisenkot gets to forming a coalition, the more Netanyahu may be willing to offer concessions to prevent Eisenkot from taking office. He said Netanyahu's broader aim appears to be preserving his alliance with ultra-Orthodox parties, which he views as essential for maintaining a parliamentary majority.

Hefetz also contrasted Eisenkot with former prime minister Naftali Bennett, saying Netanyahu regards the former IDF chief of staff as a more formidable opponent. He cited remarks from former minister Elazar Stern that Eisenkot feels insulated from political pressure after his wartime experience, a perception Netanyahu is aware of.

The former adviser speculated that negotiations with Eisenkot could include political incentives, such as legislation modeled on a French law to protect an alternate prime minister, and that Eisenkot's credibility might help secure ultra-Orthodox support. He also suggested that Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Liberman's recent stance may reflect private assurances from Eisenkot.

Eisenkot received a mandate to form a government from President Isaac Herzog two days before Hefetz's comments, following the October 27 Knesset election. Hefetz warned that a loss of the premiership could have implications for Netanyahu's ongoing corruption trial.