Naftali Bennett: Startup Visionary, Elite Commando, and Israel’s 13th Prime Minister

Naftali Bennett’s story is a uniquely Israeli blend of battlefield grit, startup daring, and political disruption. Born in 1972 to American immigrant parents, Bennett grew up between cultures — deeply Israeli, yet shaped by the confidence and directness of American Judaism. This dual identity would later become one of his political strengths: he could move between worlds, from high-tech boardrooms to front-line security briefings, with the same clarity and urgency.

As a young man, Bennett volunteered for Sayeret Matkal and later served in Maglan, two of Israel’s elite commando units. He fought in covert operations that demanded precision, teamwork, and resilience — experiences that would form the backbone of his leadership style. For Bennett, military service wasn’t only about defending the state; it was about understanding that the future must be shaped proactively, not reactively.

After his army years, Bennett entered the world of high-tech and quickly distinguished himself. He co-founded a cybersecurity company that was later sold for $145 million, placing him among the successful entrepreneurs of the early Start-Up Nation generation. His business success reinforced his belief that Israel’s power lies in combining military strength with technological daring — a theme that would define his political vision.

His entrance into politics was unexpected but forceful. Bennett served as chief of staff to Benjamin Netanyahu before launching his own political path, positioning himself as a right-wing leader with a modern, pragmatic edge. As head of Habayit Hayehudi, he became a prominent voice for Jewish identity, religious-national values, and security policy rooted in clarity rather than hesitation. He was unafraid to challenge established norms, presenting himself as someone who “fixes problems, not politics.”

In June 2021, Bennett became Israel’s 13th Prime Minister, forming an unprecedented and ideologically diverse coalition that bridged right, left, center, Arab, religious, and secular parties. His short tenure was marked by a push for political stability, economic recovery after COVID-19, and a governance style that prioritized unity over rhetoric. He emphasized technology, innovation, and decisive military responses to emerging threats — particularly from Iran and regional proxies.

Though Bennett served only one year as prime minister, his leadership left a distinct footprint: the message that Israel could rise above political paralysis, that coalitions could unite across deep ideological lines, and that the Jewish state could be governed not just through identity but through competence and responsibility.

Bennett remains a symbol of a new kind of Israeli leader — one shaped by commandos, code, and conviction — embodying a future-oriented, secure, and innovative vision for the nation.