Herzog: Constitutional crisis has ‘dangerously shaken’ Israel’s economy and security

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog once again called on political leaders to “show responsibility” to overcome the deep societal crisis currently threatening the country’s security and economy. 

Herzog spoke at a state memorial ceremony at Mount Herzl, marking the seventh anniversary of Shimon Peres’ death.

“The State of Israel has been in the midst of an acute constitutional and social crisis for almost nine months, which has dangerously shaken the society, the economy, and especially the security of the State of Israel. I have already said, and I will repeat – there is no way to a solution without dialogue, there is no way forward without listening and mutual respect. We must understand that if one side wins and one side is defeated – we all lose,” Herzog said.

The president’s speech came as the government and opposition kept blaming each other for not wanting to engage in serious negotiations over judicial reforms.

Prime Minister Netanyahu invited National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz to enter into negotiations on Wednesday, which Gantz refused, calling it “spin.”

“What is clear is that Israel is ruled by an extreme minority government,” Gantz said, but stressed that he was interested in finding a consensus on the issues.

Herzog renewed his attempts to mediate between the government and opposition this week, stressing the need for unity.

“I stand here with deep concern and great anxiety, and stress once again: we must resolve the difficult and dangerous crisis between the different branches of government, and determine the healthy and correct balance of powers between them. Israeli society democracy must be preserved – based on the rule of law, which of course includes full compliance with the decisions of the court,” he said.

“I am again calling on the elected officials: it is time to show responsibility, look reality in the eyes, and act in every way to reach a broad consensus. I know it is far from easy, sometimes unbearable. But it is time to reach out, time to respond in kind, it is time to try. The vast majority of the public wishes to see an end to this crisis, and oust this controversy from the daily agenda, and start working together on the things that truly matter,” he added.