Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett blamed the resignation of former Yamina Party Knesset member Idit Silman and her defection to the opposition on “months of verbal violence” from opponents of the current government coalition.
“Idit was hounded for months. She also described the threats sent to [her husband’s workplace] and her children in Bnei Akiva. In the end, she simply broke down,” said Bennett, reported Ynet.
Bennett also said that he would work to stabilize the government as it appeared that new elections could be in sight as pressure mounts to gain one more Knesset member defect and collapse the government.
“I have talked to all the party leaders. Everyone wants to continue with this government, which is working for the citizens of the country,” he added.
Meanwhile, opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu met with Silman on Tuesday morning until 3 a.m. to close the political deal that led to her resignation.
Silman was promised 10th place in the Likud Party for the next election and to be appointed health minister if Likud forms the next government, reported Channel 12 News.
Netanyahu predicted the government would soon dissolve following the departure of Silman.
“During the holiday of Passover, we celebrate Israel’s exodus from Egypt to the Land of Israel, the Promised Land. Today, we are celebrating for a similar reason, and we commend MK Idit Silman for making the right decision,” said Netanyahu, reported Arutz 7.
