Yisrael Beiteinu Cancels Talks With Likud After Netanyahu's Knesset Speech

The Yisrael Beiteinu party has canceled a scheduled negotiation meeting with representatives of the Likud party, following a speech by outgoing Prime Minister Netanyahu at the Knesset swearing-in ceremony. Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu, ordered the cancellation of the meeting planned for Wednesday.

A statement from Yisrael Beiteinu explained that the meeting was called off due to Netanyahu's "divisive speech" and his "contempt for the Knesset swearing-in ceremony and what remains of stateliness under Netanyahu's rule." The party emphasized its commitment to national unity but accused Netanyahu of acting against this goal, stating, "Unity is an important value for Israel, Israeli solidarity is a component of Israel's national security and for their benefit we will continue to act. The outgoing Prime Minister attacked Israeli citizens tonight in what became another sad reminder, for those who needed more proof: Netanyahu does not want unity. As always, when choosing between the gravity of the hour and the resilience of Israeli society, and between his political survival, Netanyahu will always choose himself. At any price."

The Likud responded by stating that Prime Minister Netanyahu "will move heaven and earth for national unity" and that the Likud is prepared to meet with any faction that desires unity. The party noted, "Prime Minister Netanyahu stands behind his words that it is impossible to cooperate with supporters of terrorism and with those who tonight abandoned the plenum hall singing Hatikvah. It is puzzling that a meeting with the Likud is canceled and precisely with them, contacts continue to be promoted."

Despite the cancellation, the Yisrael Beiteinu party indicated it has no intention of abandoning efforts to form a broad coalition, asserting that "Prime Minister Netanyahu continues to work to establish a national unity government."