In a recent radio talk show appearance, Knesset member Elazar Stern delved into the prospect of a unity government, providing insights and observations. Stern emphasized that when Prime Minister Netanyahu suggests the concept of a unity government, thorough deliberations will follow. Stern acknowledged that the parameters for a unity government are readily apparent to all concerned parties, warranting in-depth discussions within Yesh Atid and among the opposition factions.
The dialogue with Stern commenced by addressing the notion of a missed breakthrough. In response, he conveyed that a sense of confusion and unease pervades among Israeli citizens, encompassing both supporters and non-supporters of the current government. This emotional atmosphere is compounded by concerns about substantial issues casting a shadow. Stern underscored the inevitability of clashes within differing value systems. Critiquing the present administration, Stern perceived it as a source of disruption impacting the entire nation. He expressed willingness to entertain any avenue that might rescue the State of Israel from its predicament.
אנשים שואלים אותי כל הזמן, "אבל מה התוכנית?" התוכנית היא להיאבק בהם עד שהם ילכו. להילחם עד שהממשלה הזו תיפול. לא למצמץ, לא להציל אותם מעצמם.
— יאיר לפיד - Yair Lapid (@yairlapid) August 26, 2023
זה לא רחוק כמו שחושבים. הממשלה הזו תיפול ואנחנו נלך לבחירות ונחזור משם עם ממשלת אחדות אמיתית. ממשלה הגונה, לא מושחתת, לא רעילה. pic.twitter.com/uu2qvnT3eb
Turning to the subject of Eli Cohen's meeting with the Libyan Foreign Minister, a situation that incited controversy among the Libyan public, Stern articulated the notion that Israel has acquired proficiency in cultivating relations with Arab nations. He elucidated the intricate process involved in initiating such connections, including strategic coordination and timing for public disclosure. Stern indicated that a comparable approach applied to Egypt or the United Arab Emirates would have likely precluded any diplomatic ties. He cautioned against the approach of selective information dissemination, deeming it counterproductive to building substantive relationships.
Returning to the topic of a unity government, Stern reiterated his aspiration for unity and affirmed his stance that the possibility merits genuine consideration."I still think that I want to see unity. When Benjamin Netanyahu proposes a unity government there will be a discussion, I will listen to the conditions; it may be yes and it may not be. The conditions of the opposition are clear to everyone."
📸 Libya's prime minister referred his foreign minister's meeting to an investigation.
— Mete Sohtaoğlu (@metesohtaoglu) August 27, 2023
Libyan National Unity Government's PM al-Dabaiba suspended his foreign minister, Najla Mangoush, over a meeting held last week in Rome with Israel's Foreign Minister Eli Cohen. pic.twitter.com/YFkg64I5vM
Lastly, the conversation steered towards Stern's perception of a government involving Ben Gvir and Smotrich. He noted that while he had anticipated certain characteristics, the current composition exceeded his expectations. Stern characterized the current government as a reflection of quantifiable realities within Israel. He cited measurable indicators such as the Shekel's valuation, the cost of living, and the toll of terrorism casualties within Judea, Samaria, and Arab communities.
