Amidst the heated debates surrounding the judicial reform, a proposal has emerged from a somewhat unexpected quarter. Knesset member Matan Kahane of the National Camp coalition, which is led by Benny Gantz’s Blue & White party, has published a thought-provoking post. In this post, he sketches an outline that, in his belief, holds the potential to unify the nation and bring a much-needed resolution to the ongoing crisis. Interestingly, while this outline delves into the idea of a unity government and even touches upon the continuation of Netanyahu's term as the prime minister, it remains silent on one crucial matter: the much-contested issue of judicial reform.
Branded as the "'Kahane Blueprint', Kahane's proposal essentially aims to pull Israel out of its current political mire. He writes, "Imagine a scenario where Netanyahu remains the prime minister for another two years. Visualize a government that has its foundations in Likud, the state camp, and Yesh Atid. This government would encompass all who are willing to adhere to fundamental guidelines resonating with the spirit of the Declaration of Independence. Two years down the line, envisage elections being held and Netanyahu bowing out, retiring gracefully."
"The comments come days after Stern’s party & opposition & Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid said that joining a unity government w/ Netanyahu’s Likud would “ruin the country.”
— (((Bennett Ruda))) (@daledamos) August 17, 2023
Both Lapid & Gantz have repeatedly rejected the possibility of forming a coalition spearheaded by Netanyahu" https://t.co/AGiVfxzTFg
Kahane is emphatic about the efficacy of his proposal. He urges, "Re-read the blueprint. Amidst the prevailing turmoil, can we genuinely identify a more promising solution?" He proceeds to paint a picture of the manifold benefits that could arise from such a coalition. "A government formed on these lines would have the capability to mend the profound internal divisions that plague us," he asserts. "It would ensure representation for all segments of Israeli society. Such a coalition would also rejuvenate our military forces and fortify our defenses against growing external threats."
Kahane further believes that this kind of unity government would not just stop at addressing internal divisions. "It can frame a constitution or, at a minimum, introduce a collection of basic laws to ensure a fair distribution of power among various governing bodies. This government can potentially broker peace with Saudi Arabia, invigorate the economy, and reinstate global market faith in the Israeli success story. More than anything, it promises a peace – a genuine peace, not one that's shallow or transient, but a peace that blesses."
Opposition MK calls for unity government with Netanyahu, defying Benny Gantz#Israel @MatanKahana #Netanyahu @netanyahu @IsraeliPM @KnessetENG @yairlapid @gantzbe @itamarbengvir @bezalelsm @LikudParty @YeshAtidParty #Jerusalem #MiddleEast #IDF @IDFhttps://t.co/dvspEDc0ZH
— Agencia AJN (@AgenciaAJN) August 17, 2023
However, in a candid confession, Kahane acknowledges the potential hurdles. The realization of such a vision is fraught with challenges, and the odds are not particularly favorable. Yet, hope springs eternal. Recounting his personal experiences, he says, "Over the past year, my interactions with Benny Gantz have deepened. His commitment to Israel's welfare, something he has demonstrated time and again, is beyond question. If there's even a sliver of a chance that this blueprint could be realized, I believe Gantz would give it serious consideration." He further laments, "It disheartens me that I haven't encountered many political pundits who believe in the viability of this proposal. Yet, if the public's voice is loud and clear in its support, who's to say there won't be a glimmer of hope?"
