Herzog Urges New Knesset to Serve Full Term and Avoid Repeat Elections

President Isaac Herzog urged the newly elected 26th Knesset to complete its full term and avoid sending Israelis back to the polls, addressing its opening session in Jerusalem on Tuesday, November 10. He called on political rivals to compromise, cooperate and listen to one another, saying voters wanted routine, security and tranquility. “You must do everything to avoid repeat elections,” Herzog said. He told lawmakers that nearly 80 percent had elected them and asked them to consider what they could do for citizens after the sacrifices citizens had made since the October 7 massacre. Greeting members and their families, he acknowledged those who had experienced bereavement or injury and urged lawmakers to remember their public mission when the cameras were off. Herzog said political leadership must build stable, functioning everyday life. He urged lawmakers to address the burden borne by regular soldiers and reservists, seeking a solution that respects Jewish heritage and Torah study while sharing military-service obligations. He condemned racism, bullying and violence, including in Arab society, the hills of Judea and Samaria, city streets and schools. On foreign policy, Herzog urged a stable regional diplomatic horizon, stronger peace agreements with Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, and efforts toward additional agreements. He also called for strengthening the United States alliance and opposing diplomatic sanctions.