In a notable political shift, Gideon Saar, leader of the New Hope party, has rejoined Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government just over a week after previously declining an offer to replace Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. This development was officially announced during a joint press conference between Saar and Netanyahu.Netanyahu expressed gratitude towards Saar for his decision, emphasizing that it enhances unity within the government during challenging times. He remarked, “I appreciate the fact that Gideon Saar has answered my request and agreed to join the government. This move contributes to the unity among us and to our unity in the face of our enemies.” He commended Saars extensive vision and his capability to devise creative solutions to complex issues, highlighting their previous alignment on necessary actions during security cabinet discussions.ברוך הבא גדעון סער pic.twitter.com/5BWcwvbdTp— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) September 29, 2024Who is Gideon SaarGideon Saar is an Israeli politician and lawyer known for his leadership of the New Hope party. He has a significant history in Israeli politics, particularly as a former member of the Likud party, where he was considered one of its prominent figures. Saar served as Israels Minister of Education and Minister of Interior under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.In 2014, following increasing tensions with Netanyahu, Saar temporarily stepped back from politics, citing a desire for a break. He later returned and founded the New Hope party in 2020, positioning it as a centrist alternative to the Likud party. Saars political ideology emphasizes national security, economic issues, and social unity.But in late 2023, Saar made headlines by rejoining Netanyahus government, which sparked controversy and backlash from opposition leaders. As part of the government, he serves as a minister without portfolio and is involved in the security cabinet, participating in discussions related to national defense and security policies. His political journey reflects significant shifts in Israeli politics and ongoing debates surrounding governance and unity within the country.Emphasizing unitySaar underscored the importance of unity within Israel, stating that strengthening the country and its government is crucial at this juncture. In a translated post on Facebook, he noted, “We are living in historic days for Israel. These are decisive days in the campaign against our enemies. At this time, it is important to strengthen Israel, its government, and its unity. This is the patriotic and right thing to do now. I announced this evening about my joining the government.”Outrage from oppositionSaars return to the government has ignited backlash among opposition leaders. Opposition head Yair Lapid took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his discontent, stating, “We have passed many tests, many more tests await us. It is difficult in the opposition and even harder to see how the worst government in our history destroys the best in the country. It is also difficult to see Saar giving up his self-respect and the fact that he is a decent person.”הרבה מבחנים עברנו, הרבה מבחנים עוד צפויים לנו, קשה באופוזיציה וקשה הרבה יותר לראות איך הממשלה הגרועה בתולדותינו הורסת את הטובה שבמדינות. קשה גם לראות את סער מוותר על כבודו העצמי ועל עצם היותו אדם הגון. אלא שקשה זה לא אומר שמתייאשים, אלא שנלחמים.— יאיר לפיד - Yair Lapid (@yairlapid) September 29, 2024Despite joining the government, Saar has not replaced Gallant for the time being. However, reports indicate that both he and Netanyahu are not ruling out this possibility in the future, as Netanyahu is believed to be keen on making changes to his cabinet soon.Currently, Saar enters the government as a minister without portfolio and will participate in the security cabinet. He and his party will have some freedom to vote on controversial issues, although they will not hold veto power.
