Eisenkot Pushes Bold Draft Plan Amid Government Formation Battle
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
Political commentator Amit Segal believes the main government formation fight is between Gadi Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman. Eisenkot is pushing for a 48-member government with outside Arab support, while Lieberman favors a 61-member coalition including Haredi parties. Segal noted Eisenkot's plan faces challenges, particularly regarding his proposed conscription framework, and negotiations may continue for some time.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot is pushing a bold conscription plan amid government formation talks, according to Amit Segal.
- Amit Segal identifies the key government formation struggle as being between Gadi Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman.
- Eisenkot reportedly seeks a 48-member government with external support, while Lieberman proposes a 61-member coalition.
- Sources in Eisenkot's party reject Lieberman's promises to Haredi parties, insisting on Eisenkot's conscription plan.
- Amit Segal doubts a government can be sworn in this week, predicting prolonged negotiations.
Political commentator Amit Segal assesses that the primary struggle over forming a new government is currently between Gadi Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman, rather than between Eisenkot and Benjamin Netanyahu. Segal described this as the "semifinal" in the formation process.
According to Segal, Eisenkot is advocating for a government composed of 48 Knesset members from four "change bloc" parties, with external support from Arab factions and possibly abstentions from United Torah Judaism. In contrast, Lieberman proposes a 61-member government including the Haredi parties, which would enable him to oppose Eisenkot's conscription plan.
Segal characterized Eisenkot's move as "brave" and a "poker game with Lieberman," suggesting Eisenkot might succeed where others have failed. However, he expressed doubt that a government could be sworn in this week, predicting that Bennett and Lieberman would vote against a "flash government."
Lieberman's plan also faces obstacles. Segal noted that sources within Eisenkot's party are stating that Lieberman's promises to the Haredi parties are not binding on them. They continue to insist on Eisenkot's conscription framework, with potential minor compromises only on timelines.
Segal concluded that both sides are currently trying to undermine the other's ability to form a government, and negotiations could extend until the "change bloc" clarifies its proposed coalition and framework for replacing Netanyahu.
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