US Advisers Seek Israeli Government Shift

American advisers to President Donald Trump are advocating for a change in Israel's governing coalition. They propose a moderate unity government that would exclude National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from the cabinet.

Bill Ackman, who leads the hedge fund Pershing Square, publicly supported this framework on Sunday. The billionaire, who backed Trump in the 2024 election, argued that a broader coalition would help Israel restore its international standing. He stated that the presence of Ben-Gvir and Smotrich damages the country's global image and hinders diplomatic goals.

Ackman praised Netanyahu's relationship with Trump and suggested the prime minister remain in office with different partners. He noted that such a shift would support the expansion of the Abraham Accords and improve ties with both major US political parties.

Other Washington figures share this view, believing that Trump's Middle East plans depend on a new cabinet. A key objective is a historic normalization deal with Saudi Arabia, which faces obstacles with Ben-Gvir and Smotrich in power. Riyadh requires tangible progress on the Palestinian issue, making the current coalition composition a complicating factor.

Tensions between Washington and Jerusalem have already surfaced. Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are reportedly frustrated by the speed of Netanyahu's implementation of Trump's Gaza plan. Special Envoy Tom Barrick disagrees with Israel's approach to Syria, while officials near Secretary of State Marco Rubio want to strengthen the Lebanese government. They also express frustration over inaction regarding Jewish violence in Judea and Samaria.

Some in Trump's circle doubt a diplomatic breakthrough is possible while Netanyahu holds the premiership. This has led to a rotation proposal where Netanyahu serves for the first year, followed by another leader to negotiate with Saudi Arabia before the US term ends. Supporters argue this structure provides initial continuity while handing regional diplomacy to a leader unattached to Netanyahu's current partners.

Netanyahu has told Trump he wants a unity government and will work toward one after the election. Ambassador Yechiel Leiter stated publicly that Netanyahu prefers this model and will 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. Otzma Yehudit officials reacted sharply to the idea, and Ben-Gvir urged Netanyahu to form a right-wing government instead.

Trump has not formally endorsed the initiative, though he backed Netanyahu on October 18. Vice President JD Vance did not join that endorsement. Ambassador Mike Huckabee denied that the US is pushing for a unity government, stating the administration does not dictate actions to the Israeli prime minister.