Mon Sep 30 03:07:16 UTC 2024: ## Former Rival Gideon Saar Joins Netanyahu’s Government, Strengthening Coalition Amidst Regional Conflicts

**JERUSALEM -** Gideon Saar, a former minister and long-time rival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has joined the government, bolstering the current coalition as Israel faces ongoing conflicts with militant groups in Gaza and Lebanon. Saar, who previously held several ministerial positions, has returned as a minister without portfolio.

Netanyahu welcomed the move, stating in a televised statement, “I appreciate the fact that Gideon Saar has answered my request and agreed today to return to the government. This move contributes to unity within us and unity against our enemies.”

Saar’s return provides Netanyahu with an additional four seats in the Knesset (Israel’s parliament), bringing his total to 68 out of 120. This strengthens his position, potentially mitigating the threat of a government collapse due to the potential defection of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who has threatened to withdraw his support if the government agrees to a ceasefire with Hamas or Hezbollah.

Despite his past rivalry with Netanyahu, Saar, who is considered more right-wing than the Prime Minister, has a hawkish stance on security matters and has publicly advocated for the annexation of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

Saar’s return to the government marks a significant shift in Israeli politics. Just five years ago, he openly challenged Netanyahu for leadership of the Likud party. While he participated in the emergency government formed after Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023, he joined the opposition in March after failing to secure a position in the war cabinet.

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