Lapid blames Netanyahu for Israel’s isolation, vows reset if he returns to gov’t

During an address at the Atlantic Council in Washington on July 27, 2026, Israeli Opposition Leader Yair Lapid outlined his vision for Israel's diplomatic future, blaming Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the country's current international isolation. Lapid proposed a government, potentially with Naftali Bennett as prime minister and Gadi Eisenkot as defense minister, that would prioritize mending ties with the U.S. and Europe, adopt a tougher stance on Iran, and shift its approach to Gaza. He emphasized the need for Israel to rebuild relationships with allies, stating, “France is not the enemy. Sweden is not the enemy. The Democratic Party is not the enemy.” Lapid also advocated for a more empathetic approach to the Gaza conflict, direct negotiations with regional states, and a hard line on Haredi financial support tied to military service and education. He expressed concerns about a potential Saudi nuclear enrichment program and reiterated his changed view on a Palestinian state following the October 7 attacks.