Bennett Open to Unity Government, Even With Netanyahu
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett stated he is open to a unity government, even with Benjamin Netanyahu, despite his party's official stance. This comes as coalition talks intensify, with Gadi Eisenkot seeking to form a government. Shas party has reaffirmed its support for Netanyahu, potentially hindering Eisenkot's path to a majority.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Former PM Naftali Bennett is open to unity government, even with Benjamin Netanyahu.
- Bennett's party officially supports forming a government led by Gadi Eisenkot.
- Shas party reaffirmed its support for Netanyahu, potentially blocking Eisenkot's coalition.
- Avigdor Lieberman reportedly offered negotiations between Yaakov Asher and Bennett.
- Eisenkot may struggle to form a stable government without external support.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has indicated he is not ruling out a partnership with the Likud party, stating he "refuses to take unity off the table, even with Benjamin Netanyahu." This statement was made in a closed conversation with a leader of the "Change Bloc" amid ongoing coalition formation efforts, according to Channel 13 News. Bennett's remarks emerged as other leaders within the bloc, such as Gadi Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman, had clearer plans, leaving Bennett's position ambiguous until this private discussion.
Following the reports, Bennett's "Achim, Led by Bennett" party issued a sharp statement, asserting that Netanyahu's "divisive speech proves he cannot remain in office for another moment" and that Bennett "will continue to work to establish a government headed by Eisenkot as quickly as possible." Yuval Segev, who reported the item, clarified that Bennett's private remark preceded Netanyahu's speech and did not imply Netanyahu would lead the government, thus not contradicting his party's official response.
The political landscape is dynamic, with various scenarios for government formation being discussed. A key question is whether the Haredi parties will join a government led by Eisenkot. In a gesture suggesting a dramatic rapprochement, Lieberman reportedly offered Yaakov Asher, Chairman of Degel HaTorah, a meeting with Bennett to initiate negotiations.
Conversely, the Shas party officially declared its continued support for the right-wing bloc and Netanyahu. Citing instructions from the Council of Torah Sages, Shas stated it recommended Netanyahu to the President after he committed to passing a law regulating the status of yeshiva students. Consequently, Shas will not engage in negotiations with any other party.
If Shas adheres to its commitment, Eisenkot would lack the 61 mandates needed for a stable government without external support from the Joint List, raising significant questions about his ability to form a viable coalition.
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