President Herzog Urges Knesset to Avoid Early Elections, Citing Unity
President Isaac Herzog urged the Knesset to avoid new elections, emphasizing national unity, the October 7 investigation, and the eradication of violence during his opening address to the 26th parliament.
President Isaac Herzog addressed the opening session of the 26th Knesset on Tuesday, urging lawmakers to prioritize national unity and make every effort to avoid holding a new round of elections.
In his address, the President emphasized the public's deep-seated expectation for stability and security, appealing directly to elected officials. "Nearly eighty percent of the people voted for you — you must do everything in your power to avoid holding another election," Herzog stated.
Addressing the implications of the October 7 events, Herzog underscored the absolute necessity of conducting a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the intelligence and operational failure. "We are obligated to turn over every stone, investigate and understand how the October 7 disaster occurred, and draw the necessary lessons and conclusions," he declared. Furthermore, he noted that the current Knesset bears the responsibility of resolving the ongoing military enlistment crisis for regular and reserve service personnel in a manner suitable for a country proud of its heritage.
Turning to political discourse, the President called upon lawmakers to foster respectful and unifying dialogue. "The people who elected you are thirsty for routine, security, and peace of mind," Herzog said, urging members of parliament to translate public sacrifice and dedication into cooperation, dialogue, and listening. He called for moderation and a willingness to compromise, even among political rivals.
Concluding his remarks, the President touched upon pressing diplomatic and security challenges, urging the strengthening of the strategic alliance with the United States alongside expanding existing peace agreements. He also forcefully denounced violence, racism, and lawlessness across all segments of Israeli society, including within the Arab sector and Judea and Samaria, declaring that moral blemishes and bullying must be decisively eradicated.
