New Knesset speaker could be key to ousting Netanyahu

Opposition politicians in Israel are preparing to take control of key legislative levers as the new knesset netanyahu administration faces intense pressure from political rivals seeking to unseat the prime minister. Tuesday marks the swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected legislature, bringing the opposition their first opportunity to influence the nation's political direction despite ongoing struggles to build a governing coalition. ## The Battle for the Legislature High on the agenda for opposition parties is replacing the current legislative speaker, Amir Ohana, who is a close ally of Benjamin Netanyahu. The speaker holds considerable power by directing the agenda of the legislature. Israeli media reports indicate that Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief holding the presidential mandate to form a government, might step into the speaker role himself. Should he choose differently, his Yashar party will put forward another nominee. The opposition parties collectively hold 67 seats in the 120-seat legislature, providing enough numbers to install a consensus choice for the position. More than 160 retired security officials have warned that right-wing activists might attempt to disrupt the swearing-in proceedings through violent demonstrations aimed at blocking members and their families from entering the building. Meanwhile, Eisenkot has pledged to assemble a national emergency government using unconventional political tactics, acknowledging that compromises on campaign promises will be necessary. Political analysts note that even if a coalition is successfully formed, the opposition may delay announcing it until the current speaker is replaced to prevent delays by Netanyahu. ## Why it matters The struggle for control of the legislature determines whether opposition politicians can establish a government and limit Benjamin Netanyahu's ability to destabilize a new administration.