Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has accused current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being unable to govern independently, claiming he is controlled by far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir, Bezalel Smotrich, and ultra-Orthodox groups. In an interview with podcast host Mario Nawfal, Bennett said Netanyahu’s dependence on these figures has left him incapable of managing his own government.

Bennett, who leads the Bennett 2026 party, stated that he would never include individuals like Ben-Gvir or Smotrich in his cabinet, describing their remarks as foolish. He argued that Netanyahu can no longer restrain them because his political survival depends on their support. Bennett also said Israel’s international image has suffered due to the government’s actions and ministers’ repeated missteps, alongside a failure in public diplomacy.

He further criticized Israel’s prolonged conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, saying they contradict the country’s military doctrine. Bennett and former Prime Minister Yair Lapid have recently formed a coalition named “Together” aimed at unseating Netanyahu in the upcoming election.