The past year has seen Prime Minister Netanyahu’s grip on power steadily weaken amidst criticism of his leadership in the war against Hamas. Key allies have abandoned ship, most notably Benny Gantz, who exited in June from both the war cabinet and the government entirely. His departure left Netanyahu increasingly beholden to far-right factions within his coalition, whose support has also dwindled following the government’s decision to mandate drafting yeshiva students.

Still, while Netanyahu’s internal support continues to bleed, an unexpected savior has stepped forward. Gideon Saar, a longtime political rival and veteran right-wing lawmaker, agreed to join Netanyahu’s government on Sunday in a move that could prove critical for the embattled leader’s survival.

Despite their tumultuous history, which includes Saar’s previous attempts to unseat Netanyahu as head of Likud, the two have set aside their personal differences in what they claim is a recognition of shared views on critical security matters.

“In the security cabinet discussions, I was very impressed by the broad view of Gideon Saar and from his abilities to present creative solutions to complicated problems,” Netanyahu stated, “More than once, we saw eye to eye on the steps that must be taken.”

Saar’s inclusion brings more than just his personal expertise to the table. His New Hope party adds four valuable seats to the coalition, expanding Netanyahu’s majority in the 120-seat Knesset to a more comfortable 68. He originally joined the coalition after Oct 7, but withdrew in March after being excluded from Netanyahu’s now-dissolved war cabinet.

However, the New Hope party leader’s reinclusion is not without its complexities. Known for his hardline stance, particularly regarding negotiations with Hamas, Saar may further complicate the already delicate cease-fire and hostage exchange discussions.

“Hamas is not interested in a hostage deal,” Saar recently wrote on X, “The thought that if Israel just makes this or that concession then the matter will be resolved is simply not true. It is a grave mistake to tear the nation apart for something that does not exist.”

Experts weighing in say Israel’s prime minister had no choice but to embrace a former adversary as the country grapples with escalating tensions on multiple fronts, including an expected invasion of Lebanon. Yet, even with Saar’s backing, Netanyahu faces an uphill battle in maintaining public support for his hardline approach, as many Israelis grow increasingly frustrated with a war strategy that has yet to secure the hostages’ release.