Netanyahu Bolsters Coalition with Key Addition, Potentially Weakening Far-Right Influence

Veteran right-wing lawmaker Gideon Saar has rejoined Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, potentially diminishing the influence of far-right members who have held virtual veto power over the government, Bloomberg reports.

Saar, who heads the New Hope party, will join the high-level security cabinet, according to a joint statement by Netanyahu and Saar. This move marks a major turnaround after Saar withdrew from the coalition in March, protesting his exclusion from the war cabinet overseeing the conflict with Hamas.

“In the security cabinet discussions, I was very impressed by the broad view of Gideon Saar and from his abilities to present creative solutions to complicated problems,” Netanyahu said. “More than once, we saw eye to eye on the steps that must be taken.”

Saar initially demanded the role of defense minister, replacing Yoav Gallant, whose relationship with Netanyahu has become strained in recent months. However, Saar dropped this demand as tensions with Lebanon escalated.

The addition of Saar’s four Knesset seats to the coalition gives Netanyahu 68 seats out of 120, strengthening his position and providing a buffer against potential rebellions within the coalition. This move effectively weakens the hand of far-right firebrand Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has sought to push through more nationalist policies.

Saar’s return comes at a crucial time for the government, which is seeking to pass a budget in the coming months. His support is likely to be crucial for Netanyahu’s proposed softening of a law on military conscription of ultra-Orthodox men.

Saar is expected to take a hard-line position on ongoing negotiations with Hamas for a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal. His military experience, while limited to a stint as an infantry conscript, coupled with his legal background as a former attorney general’s aide, will likely contribute to his stance on security matters.