Netanyahu Calls for Talks, Eisenkot Accuses Him of Spin

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a recorded statement Saturday evening calling for the formation of a "national unity government" and warning of an existential threat from Iran. He urged Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu and the designated mandate holder to form the next government, to enter negotiations "without preconditions" to establish a government including "all parties that support the existence of the State of Israel as the state of the Jewish people."

Less than an hour later, Eisenkot responded, revealing that a coalition negotiation meeting between representatives of Yisrael Beiteinu and the Likud party was already scheduled for Sunday. Eisenkot dismissed Netanyahu's call as a "spin," stating, "Netanyahu knows that such a meeting has already been set. It was scheduled for tomorrow between the negotiation teams of Yisrael Beiteinu and the Likud." He accused Netanyahu of seeking unity while simultaneously sowing division and disrespecting state institutions.

Eisenkot further asserted that Netanyahu is aware of his electoral defeat and the clear majority against him in the Knesset, and is attempting to obstruct the formation of a new government. He also highlighted an upcoming Knesset vote on Tuesday for the position of Speaker, where MK Matan Kahana of Yisrael Beiteinu is expected to replace Amir Ohana of the Likud. Eisenkot presented this vote as a test for the Likud and the Religious Zionism parties to prove their commitment to genuine political partnership by allowing a democratic process.

Sources close to Netanyahu suggested he might be open to discussing a rotation of the prime ministership with Eisenkot during negotiations, stating, "No preconditions are being presented. Let Gadi enter the room with Netanyahu and there they will talk about everything." However, a senior figure in the "change bloc" reiterated the "spin" accusation, believing Netanyahu understands Eisenkot's determination to form a government led by him.

Netanyahu's statement also touched upon a security briefing he held with Eisenkot, emphasizing the necessity of a broad national unity government to address the significant security challenges posed by Iran's nuclear program and its regional ambitions. He argued that a narrow government or one relying on "terror supporters" could not effectively counter these threats, while a unity government could also foster regional peace and economic growth. Eisenkot, meanwhile, continues his efforts to form a government, prioritizing talks with the ultra-Orthodox parties, though significant progress remains elusive. He also addressed the campaign against Arab parties, calling it anti-state and a violation of democratic principles.