Gush Enkud Focuses on Replacing Knesset Speaker Amid Coalition Talks
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
The "Gush Enkud" bloc has agreed to focus on replacing the Knesset Speaker as a first step in coalition talks. Party leaders are reportedly interested in the speaker position, possibly in anticipation of a government with Benjamin Netanyahu. The bloc is also exploring options to include Yahadut HaTorah later, though consensus on who to recommend for government formation is pending. Meanwhile, Yair Lapid met with Enkud, and Avigdor Lieberman stated he does not want the speaker role, while Mansour Abbas indicated Ra'am will recommend the bloc's candidate with conditions.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Gush Enkud bloc prioritizes replacing Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana in initial government formation talks.
- Party leaders are reportedly interested in the Knesset Speaker role for potential future government scenarios.
- Gush Enkud is exploring including Yahadut HaTorah in the government at a later stage.
- No final agreement has been reached within Gush Enkud on who to recommend for government formation.
- Yair Lapid met with Enkud to discuss election results and forming a broad government.
- Avigdor Lieberman has declined any interest in serving as Knesset Speaker.
Negotiations to form a new government are underway, with the "Gush Enkud" (Enkud Bloc) agreeing to prioritize the replacement of the current Knesset Speaker, Amir Ohana, in the initial phase. According to political correspondent Nadav Elimelech, party leaders are vying for this position, potentially as a strategic move should Enkud form a government with Benjamin Netanyahu. The bloc is actively engaged in direct and indirect discussions ahead of the recommendations phase for President Isaac Herzog.
Plans are being considered to potentially bring Yahadut HaTorah into the government during a second stage. However, sources within the bloc indicate that a final agreement has not yet been reached regarding which bloc member will be recommended to the President to undertake the task of forming the government. Earlier on Saturday evening, Enkud and Yair Lapid met, releasing a joint statement affirming their discussion of election results and coordinated actions to fulfill the voters' will.
Following the meeting, Lapid announced his intention to "immediately work to realize the clear parliamentary majority" based on four foundational principles for establishing a broad government, alongside his demand for a state commission of inquiry and the promotion of mandatory service for all. Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, stated via X that he has received multiple inquiries but has no desire or intention to serve as Knesset Speaker. In contrast, Mansour Abbas, chairman of Ra'am, indicated that his party will recommend the bloc's candidate to the President, while also setting conditions for supporting any future coalition.
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