President Isaac Herzog called on lawmakers to avoid repeat elections, strengthen Israel’s regional peace agreements and investigate the October 7 catastrophe as he addressed the opening session of the 26th Knesset on Tuesday.
“This Knesset must serve out its full term; there are many tasks before it,” Herzog said. “Nearly 80 percent of the people went to the polls and elected you. You must do everything to avoid a repeat election.”
Addressing returning and newly elected lawmakers, Herzog urged political rivals to pursue compromise and translate the resilience Israelis had shown since October 7 into effective government.
“The people who chose you long for routine, security, and tranquility,” he said, calling on members to cooperate, listen to one another and help restore unity and hope.
Herzog said Israel must confront threats from Iran and its partners while also pursuing diplomatic opportunities with its neighbors.
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“Alongside the determined and resolute fight against those who seek our harm, we must build a stable diplomatic horizon in the region with our neighbors, including the closest of them,” he said.
He called for strengthening peace agreements with Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, and expanding the circle of agreements.
The president also urged Israel to reinforce its alliance with the United States, strengthen ties with other allies and oppose diplomatic sanctions.
“We must fortify our alliance with our greatest friend, the United States,” Herzog said.
Turning to October 7, Herzog called for a thorough examination of how the catastrophe occurred and for lessons to be drawn.
“We are duty-bound to leave no stone unturned: to investigate and understand how the catastrophe of October 7th happened, and to draw lessons and conclusions,” he said.
He also urged lawmakers to address the pressures facing regular soldiers and reservists, calling for a solution that respects Israel’s religious heritage while ensuring military service obligations are shared by all.
Herzog condemned bullying, racism and violence across Israeli society, specifically citing Arab communities, the hills of Judea and Samaria, city streets and schools.
“This violence must be eradicated with full force,” he said.
The president closed by reminding lawmakers that their decisions carry consequences beyond Israel’s borders, affecting Jewish communities around the world.
“Always remember, and be mindful, that the words spoken in this hall, and the decisions made here, directly affect our Jewish sisters and brothers all over the world,” he said.
Herzog to 26th Knesset: “You must do everything to avoid a repeat election”