JERUSALEM: Former deputy army chief and opposition leader Yair Golan called on Monday for an immediate end to the Gaza war, asserting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government no longer represents the majority of Israelis.
Golan, who chairs the Democrats party, described Netanyahu’s administration as one of the most right-wing in Israel’s history and warned it poses a threat to democracy.
Speaking ahead of a parliamentary vote expected to trigger general elections, he said Israel should end the conflict as soon as possible after over 20 months of fighting.
Calls for Peace and Political Change
Golan highlighted that most Israelis want a swift ceasefire and a prisoner exchange deal that would secure the release of all Palestinians held by Israel in one agreement.
He also called for the formation of a national commission to investigate Hamas’s 2023 attack, criticizing Netanyahu’s government for opposing these steps.
Despite his party holding only four seats in the 120-member Knesset, Golan noted the influence smaller parties can have in Israel’s coalition politics.
Hope for New Elections
Expressing optimism, Golan said a prisoner release deal could be reached within days and reiterated that the majority of Israelis support holding new elections soon.
He positioned these elections as a necessary step to restore democratic values and address the ongoing crisis.
