US Advisers Push for Israeli Unity Cabinet

American officials close to President Donald Trump are promoting the creation of a moderate Israeli unity government that would exclude National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. This proposal, which has gained traction among Washington figures, aims to reshape Israel's leadership structure ahead of its upcoming election.

Bill Ackman, a billionaire hedge fund manager who supported Trump's presidential campaign, publicly urged this formation on Sunday. Ackman argued that a broad coalition would help Israel restore its international standing and expand the Abraham Accords. He stated that the presence of Ben-Gvir and Smotrich damages the country's global image and hinders diplomatic goals. Ackman praised the relationship between Netanyahu and Trump, expressing a desire for the prime minister to remain in office with different coalition partners.

Several sources indicate that other Washington figures share this view. They believe that Trump's Middle East plans for the remainder of his term depend on a change in Israel's government makeup. A primary objective is a historic normalization deal with Saudi Arabia. Officials argue that such a deal is difficult to advance with the current cabinet, noting that Riyadh requires tangible progress on the Palestinian issue.

Tensions between Washington and Jerusalem have already emerged over these diplomatic tracks. Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are reportedly frustrated by the speed at which Netanyahu is implementing Trump's Gaza plan. Special Envoy Tom Barrick disagrees with Israel's approach to Syria. Additionally, officials around Secretary of State Marco Rubio want to strengthen the Lebanese government while expressing frustration over inaction regarding Jewish violence in Judea and Samaria.

Some in Trump's circle doubt a diplomatic breakthrough is possible while Netanyahu serves as prime minister. This has led to the proposal of a rotation deal, where Netanyahu would serve for the first year before another leader takes over to negotiate with Saudi Arabia. Supporters claim this provides initial continuity while allowing a new leader to handle regional diplomacy without the constraints of the current coalition.

Israeli and American sources say Netanyahu told Trump he wants a unity government and will work toward one after the election. Israeli Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter stated that Netanyahu prefers a national unity government and has indicated he would not serve as national security minister again. However, Yashar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot and former prime minister Naftali Bennett remain opposed to serving under Netanyahu. American officials have not yet raised the framework with them.

Trump has not formally endorsed the initiative, having publicly backed Netanyahu on October 18. Vice President JD Vance did not join that endorsement. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee denied any American effort to push a unity government, stating the administration does not intervene in Israeli elections. If Netanyahu's bloc wins 61 mandates, he likely gets the first chance to form a government, but it is doubtful Eisenkot or Bennett would join. Ultra-Orthodox parties are demanding passage of the conscription bill before coalition talks begin.