Former Israeli PM Bennett slams Netanyahu over Gaza agreements

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has delivered a blistering criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, accusing it of compromising Israeli sovereignty through agreements that grant Türkiye and Qatar substantial influence in Gaza. In an extensive social media statement, Bennett characterized the current administration as delivering "the biggest blow to the country's sovereignty" through its diplomatic and security policies.

Gaza Agreement Controversy

Bennett specifically condemned arrangements made under the Egypt-brokered agreement that established an international task force for Gaza. He asserted that Türkiye and Qatar—nations he described as "Hamas-aligned actors"—had effectively entered "through the front door" with Israeli approval to shape a new "civilian" administration in Gaza. Bennett further claimed the government had enabled Türkiye to acquire "the most modern weapons in history" while Qatar obtained US guarantees protecting Hamas leaders from Israeli intervention.

Security and Diplomatic Concerns

The former prime minister alleged that Israel's military operations had become subject to daily oversight by American officers operating from a newly established US base. Bennett also criticized government ministers for what he termed "childish provocations" against allies, warning these actions were damaging Israel's international standing and resilience. He cautioned that irresponsible ministers would transform Israel "from a newly established nation to a leper nation" in global perception.

Political Implications and Future Ambitions

Bennett characterized the overall situation as "a terrible government that is destroying the country from within" and concluded with a rallying cry: "Don't lose heart. We will fix this. That day is not far away." This closing statement has been widely interpreted as signaling both a political rebellion against Netanyahu's leadership and Bennett's potential intention to return to national leadership, reflecting deepening divisions within Israeli politics over Gaza policy.