Coalition Talks Stall Amidst Public Feuds and Strategic Silence
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Gadi Eisenkot is expected to receive the mandate to form Israel's government, but faces internal bloc disagreements and public disputes, notably with Avigdor Lieberman. Lieberman opposes Eisenkot's minority government plan and has criticized his campaign. Eisenkot calls for a national emergency government, while Naftali Bennett remains publicly silent, focusing on Knesset control. Yair Golan expresses optimism about progress, despite acknowledged challenges, urging partners not to miss the opportunity for change.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot will receive the mandate to form Israel's government amidst significant coalition challenges.
- Avigdor Lieberman publicly opposes Gadi Eisenkot's minority government plan and criticizes his campaign.
- Eisenkot advocates for a swift formation of a national emergency government.
- Naftali Bennett remains silent, focusing on gaining control of the Knesset.
- Yair Golan expresses optimism about coalition progress and the potential for change.
- Internal disagreements threaten the formation of a new Israeli government.
Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yesh! party, is set to receive the mandate to form a government from Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Sunday. The coming weeks are expected to be challenging for Eisenkot as he navigates potential difficulties with his bloc partners. While the four parties in the bloc fulfilled their promise to recommend a single candidate to the president, significant disagreements among them have become apparent.
Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, has publicly opposed Eisenkot's plan for a minority government, calling the bloc's election results a "burning failure" attributed to Eisenkot's campaign. Lieberman expressed anger at Eisenkot during a press conference and in a subsequent social media post, where he also indicated a willingness to compromise on the conscription of Haredim, a move that drew criticism for potentially violating commitments.
Eisenkot responded to Lieberman's statements, advocating for a "national emergency government" and avoiding the term "minority government." He aims for a swift swearing-in, based on four "Zionist change and reform" parties, with the potential for gradual inclusion of others. Eisenkot warned that those who obstruct the government's formation for personal reasons would be historically condemned.
Meanwhile, Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Together party, has remained largely silent since the elections. He has emphasized the urgency of taking control of the Knesset, proposing the replacement of the current Speaker. Bennett's campaign focused on a "civil service revolution," but criticism has mounted following Lieberman's statements on potentially sitting with Haredi parties and compromising on conscription.
Topaz Luk, a senior advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, publicly questioned Bennett's silence by asking about the whereabouts of Jonathan Shilo, a young MK on Bennett's list. Despite the external pressure and Bennett's quiet approach, Baruria Naim Arman, CEO of Bennett's party, stated that Bennett continues to support Eisenkot's efforts, emphasizing the need for quiet responsibility to achieve significant results.
Yair Golan, chairman of the Democrats, expressed optimism about forming a government, citing progress and serious work being done. He acknowledged difficulties but highlighted advancements and a commitment from partners to achieve change. Golan warned against missing the opportunity to form a change government, emphasizing the historical responsibility to succeed.
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