Israeli Coalition Talks Stall Amidst Deep Divisions Among Bloc Leaders
Translated & summarized from Vesty by baba
Gadi Eisenkot is set to receive a mandate to form Israel's next government but faces internal bloc divisions. His plan for a minority government is opposed by Avigdor Lieberman, while Naftali Bennett urges swift action. Yair Golan expresses optimism about forming a government of change. The bloc leaders are also vying for control of the Knesset leadership.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot expected to receive mandate to form Israeli government, facing internal bloc divisions.
- Avigdor Lieberman opposes Eisenkot's minority government plan and criticizes his leadership.
- Naftali Bennett calls for urgent action and control of Knesset leadership.
- Yair Golan expresses optimism about forming a government of change.
- Eisenkot warns against obstruction, emphasizing the need for a government of national emergency.
- Lieberman's shift on ultra-Orthodox parties and conscription draws criticism from partners.
Gadi Eisenkot is expected to receive a mandate from President Yitzhak Herzog to form a new Israeli government on Sunday, November 7. He will have 28 days, extendable by 14, to assemble a coalition. However, significant obstacles may arise from his own political bloc partners, despite their prior agreement to present a united front.
Eisenkot intends to form a minority government, having secured the support of 67 Knesset members, including Arab parties, compared to Benjamin Netanyahu's 46 recommendations. This plan faces strong opposition from Avigdor Lieberman, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, who rejects a minority government and has criticized Eisenkot's leadership, calling the election results a "crushing failure" of the bloc. Lieberman also announced an end to his boycott of ultra-Orthodox parties and willingness to compromise on the issue of military conscription, drawing criticism from partners who accuse him of breaking campaign promises for universal service.
In response, Eisenkot called for a "government of national emergency," avoiding the term "minority government." He stated his intention to swear in such a government quickly, based on "four Zionist parties of change and correction, with the addition of any party and any Knesset member who agrees with my four fundamental principles." He also issued a veiled warning to Lieberman, stating that anyone who obstructs the government's formation for personal reasons will be remembered for failing to rise to the historical moment.
Meanwhile, Naftali Bennett, chairman of the Bayahad party, has remained largely silent, emphasizing the need for urgent action and taking control of the Knesset leadership. His party, along with others, has called for Amir Ohana's replacement as Speaker of the Knesset on November 10. Bennett's campaign focused on a "union of public servants," and Lieberman's willingness to cooperate with ultra-Orthodox parties and compromise on conscription has drawn criticism. A sarcastic social media post from Topaz Luk, senior advisor to the prime minister, questioned the whereabouts of Bennett's party list member Yonatan Shalev.
Bruria Naim-Arman, CEO of Bennett's party, stated that Bennett continues to support Eisenkot's efforts, urging patience and trust in his leadership to form a "Zionist government of correction." Yair Golan, chairman of the Democrats party, expressed optimism, noting progress in forming a government of change and warning against a government of national unity. His party is increasing public pressure on Netanyahu and working with other bloc parties to accelerate the process, also preparing to take control of the Knesset leadership.
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