No. 15: Netanyahu's key partners and challengers shaping Israel's future

This article details key figures shaping Israel's political future within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition and the opposition. Within the coalition, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, both from far-right parties, have been influential and controversial. Smotrich has pushed for West Bank settlement expansion and faced criticism for budget allocations to the ultra-Orthodox sector, while Ben-Gvir's actions, including advocating for the death penalty for terrorists and harsher prison conditions for Palestinian inmates, have drawn international condemnation. Arye Deri, leader of the Shas party, is a vital coalition partner, criticized for his stance on ultra-Orthodox conscription. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, a Netanyahu ally, has managed international diplomacy and rejoined Likud after previous disagreements.

• Opposition leader Yair Lapid (Yesh Atid) has consistently challenged the government, holding Netanyahu responsible for the October 7 attacks and calling for his removal.
• Avigdor Liberman (Yisrael Beytenu), a long-standing political figure, aims to become prime minister, advocating for a hawkish security stance and strict enforcement of military conscription for all.