Israeli Opposition Weighs Minority Government Amidst Political Maneuvering
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Israeli opposition parties are considering forming a minority government of 41 Knesset members requiring external support, while also exploring talks with United Torah Judaism. The "change bloc" believes public controversy over foreign interference and Arab party support will fade before presidential consultations begin next week. United Torah Judaism has stated its willingness to discuss the conscription law with Gadi Eisenkot, making it a condition for coalition entry. This comes amidst ongoing political maneuvering to potentially replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Opposition factions are exploring a minority government of 41 Knesset members needing external support.
- United Torah Judaism signaled willingness to discuss conscription law with Gadi Eisenkot.
- The "change bloc" believes election interference controversy will subside before consultations.
- A source stated that forming a government with Arab party support is still possible.
- United Torah Judaism considers the conscription law a prerequisite for coalition talks.
Opposition factions are reportedly exploring the possibility of forming a minority government with only 41 Knesset members, which would require external support. This plan is being considered despite conditions set by Avigdor Lieberman. Concurrently, the United Torah Judaism party has signaled a willingness to engage in discussions with Gadi Eisenkot, particularly concerning the conscription law, which they consider a prerequisite for coalition talks.
Sources within the "change bloc" believe that public discourse surrounding potential foreign interference in elections and a Likud campaign against relying on Arab party support may subside before President Yitzhak Herzog begins consultations with party leaders in about a week. A figure in the change bloc recalled the period after Operation Guardian of the Walls, when Ra'am was initially deemed an impossible partner, yet eventually joined the previous "change government."
This precedent suggests that the ongoing Shin Bet investigation may not necessarily preclude the establishment of a government with external support from Arab parties or a move to replace the Knesset speaker. "It is still possible, and work is being done on it," a source stated.
United Torah Judaism, holding seven mandates, is seen as a potential partner to broaden the government's support base. Sources within the Haredi party indicated openness to discussing the conscription law with Eisenkot, noting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not fulfilled their demands. They are keen to hear Eisenkot's proposals and commitments, and his ability to uphold them. However, the party emphasized that this does not signify unconditional agreement to join a coalition, reiterating that the conscription law is a non-negotiable condition for entering any government or coalition.
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