It appears the Knesset elections will determine not only the next government, but also Israel’s diplomatic face in America for the coming years

Photo: AP

The Israeli government faces a new challenge with political and diplomatic ramifications, in the middle of an election campaign. Its two most important envoys are coming to the ends of their terms: Ron Dermer, ambassador to Washington, and Danny Danon, ambassador to the UN. Israel’s current government is provisional, and by law cannot make political appointments. But, paradoxically, to leave Dermer and Danon in their posts requires special approval by the government.

The matter will likely be referred to the Supreme Court for a final decision. Some speculate that Dermer, who is practically Netanyahu’s right arm in Washington and one of the few people he can rely on with eyes closed, will decide simply to resign and return home. He remains reticent about his plans, but his departure would cause Bibi a serious headache.

Netanyahu is trying to find a replacement for UN ambassador Danny Danon from Likud ranks. His logic is simple: If he succeeds in forming the next government, his coalition will be narrow, with every coalition partner demanding a prestigious ministerial position. Senior Likud figures could end up disappointed with the leftover loot.

To head off this problem, Netanyahu offered the UN post to Gilad Erdan — the same way he offered the appointment to Danny Danon in 2016, when there was a coalition of just 61 MKs, and he had to dole out ministries to other parties.

Erdan has let two months go by without answering. His hesitation is obvious — if he takes the post, and Netanyahu can’t form the next government, a Likud succession battle will ensue. In that scenario Erdan wants to be in Israel, not New York. On the other hand, if Netanyahu succeeds, then the post is a gift from heaven that will raise Erdan’s global stature.

So it appears the Knesset elections will determine not only the next government, but also Israel’s diplomatic face in America for the coming years.

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 770)