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Bennett's Government: Early Successes and Coalition Challenges

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, January 13th 2026 at 12:36 GMT by The Jerusalem Post Blogs

Navigating Early Challenges: COVID-19 and Diplomatic Progress

Bennett's initial months were largely consumed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. His government implemented a robust and ultimately successful vaccination campaign, a key factor in mitigating the virus's impact and paving the way for a return to a semblance of normalcy. This public health achievement provided an early boost to his administration's standing.

Beyond the domestic front, Bennett also made significant strides in foreign policy. Continuing the momentum initiated by the Abraham Accords, his government formally normalized relations with Bahrain and Morocco, furthering Israel's regional integration and strengthening diplomatic ties. This expansion of peace agreements represented a tangible success in a region often defined by conflict.

The Cracks in the Coalition: Internal Divisions and Rising Tensions

Despite these initial successes, the coalition government was inherently unstable from its inception. The disparate ideologies of its constituent parties proved a constant source of friction. Issues ranging from religious observance and LGBTQ+ rights to judicial reform and the contested status of Jerusalem consistently threatened to unravel the fragile alliance. These debates often spilled into public view, exposing the deep fissures within the government and fueling political polarization.

The decision to halt exploratory talks regarding the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif further exacerbated tensions, particularly with Palestinian authorities. This move, while intended to de-escalate potential conflict, instead contributed to a rise in violence and strained relations with key regional actors. The geopolitical challenges presented by the war in Ukraine also significantly impacted Israel's economy and necessitated a re-evaluation of strategic alliances, adding another layer of complexity to Bennett's leadership.

A Pragmatist or an Ideological Betrayal?

Bennett's premiership has been met with divergent interpretations. Critics contend that his decision to join the coalition required him to abandon core ideological positions, compromising his political integrity. They accuse him of prioritizing political expediency over principle. Conversely, supporters argue that Bennett demonstrated pragmatism and a commitment to putting the country's interests above personal convictions. They point to his efforts to stabilize Israeli politics and manage the pandemic as evidence of his effective leadership.

A Brief but Pivotal Chapter in Israeli Politics

The inevitable collapse of Bennett's government in June 2022 triggered Israel's fifth election in just under four years, highlighting the profound challenges of governing through coalition politics. While his time in office was undeniably short-lived, the period left an indelible mark on Israel's political landscape. Bennett's legacy remains complex and contested, a subject of ongoing analysis and debate. His experiment in bridging ideological divides, while ultimately unsuccessful, forced a national conversation about the potential for a more inclusive and representative government. The lessons learned from his brief reign - about coalition dynamics, ideological flexibility, and the pressures of leadership - will undoubtedly shape Israeli politics for years to come. The rapid return to the electoral cycle he ultimately failed to break is a testament to the deep-seated divisions that continue to plague the nation.

The writer was in Jerusalem.