The ‘anyone but Netanyahu’ coalition is not ready to lead - opinion

Shmuel Legesse argues that the anti-Netanyahu coalition, led by Eisenkot, Bennett, Lapid, and Golan, lacks a governing vision beyond removing the prime minister. The piece calls for a broad unity government that includes Likud voters, an independent October 7 commission, and a new security doctrine, warning that personal animosity cannot replace a national strategy.

Shmuel Legesse argues that the coalition of Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett, Yair Lapid, and Yair Golan, united primarily by opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, lacks a coherent governing vision. The piece contends that 'anyone but Bibi' is not a doctrine and that anger cannot organize Israel's future. Legesse notes that millions of Israelis still respect Netanyahu and will not disappear after the election. He calls for a broad Zionist unity government that brings Likud together with Eisenkot, Bennett, and other leaders, arguing that national unity cannot be built by excluding one of the country's largest political communities. The article insists on conditions for such cooperation: an independent commission of inquiry into October 7, meaningful national service for all, competent ministers, and a succession plan. Legesse warns that repeated elections weaken public confidence and that Israel's enemies exploit political division. He urges Netanyahu to prepare a generation of successors and his challengers to answer why they should lead, not just why he should leave.