Eisenkot's Coalition Bid Faces Hurdles Over Haredi Draft Exemptions
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Gadi Eisenkot is attempting to form a government but faces opposition from Haredi parties demanding full draft exemptions and potential demands from Liberman. Shas's loyalty to Netanyahu complicates matters, and the potential inclusion of Arab parties like Ra'am could alienate Liberman. Failure to form a government within the allotted time could end Eisenkot's political career, while Netanyahu works to thwart his efforts.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Gadi Eisenkot faces challenges forming a government due to Haredi draft exemption demands.
- Liberman's potential demands for a prime minister rotation could derail Eisenkot's efforts.
- Shas party remains loyal to Netanyahu, complicating coalition building.
- Inclusion of Arab parties like Ra'am could alienate Liberman.
- Failure to form a government could lead to Eisenkot's political downfall.
Gadi Eisenkot is reportedly attempting to form a government following the recent elections, but faces significant challenges, particularly concerning the Haredi parties' demand for full exemption from military service. This demand, coupled with potential demands from Liberman for a rotation in the prime minister position, could derail Eisenkot's efforts. Shas, a Haredi party, remains loyal to Netanyahu, and its voters are described as more right-wing, making their potential defection from Netanyahu a dramatic prospect.
If Shas does not join, Eisenkot might be forced to include the Arab party Ra'am. However, Liberman has stated he will not rely on an Arab party, which could lead to his withdrawal from the coalition. If Liberman leaves, Eisenkot might need to bring in the Joint List, possibly as external support, a scenario the article describes as "bizarre" and "completely distorted" but potentially politically stable despite an "ethical and security bankruptcy."
Eisenkot has a limited window of 28 days, with a possible 14-day extension, to form a government. Failure to do so could lead to his political downfall, mirroring the fates of previous left-wing leaders like Avi Gabbai, Shelly Yachimovich, Tzipi Livni, and Benny Gantz. Netanyahu is expected to work to undermine Eisenkot's coalition-building attempts until the mandate passes to him.
