Unity Talks Between Netanyahu and Eisenkot End Abruptly

A meeting between negotiation teams from the Likud and National Unity parties, aimed at forming a unity government, concluded after only an hour on Sunday afternoon, falling short of expectations for significant progress. The talks, held at the Dan Accadia Hotel in Herzliya, ended without any reported breakthroughs, with sources present indicating a lack of advancement.

Representing the Likud were faction chairman Ofir Katz and lawyer Michael Ravillo. The National Unity party was represented by MK Hili Tropper and Yoav Horowitz, a senior advisor to Gadi Eisenkot and former chief of staff to Benjamin Netanyahu. Shalom Shlomo, former Secretary of the Government and representative of Together party chairman Naftali Bennett, also joined the discussions. The National Unity party had also proposed including MK Elisha Madan, who had been protesting for a unity government, but he did not attend.

The primary obstacle to an agreement remains the leadership of the government. Eisenkot seeks to lead a government without a rotation with Netanyahu, while the Likud insists that Netanyahu must serve as prime minister. Neither side currently accepts a rotation arrangement. Eisenkot's proposed framework involves bringing the Likud into a government he would lead, alongside other current coalition parties, excluding Itamar Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit. Conversely, the Likud demands the inclusion of all parties in Netanyahu's bloc, including Otzma Yehudit, and insists on Netanyahu continuing as prime minister.

Beyond leadership, disagreements persist on the government's foundation. Eisenkot emphasizes a government based on shared values and broad unity, while the Likud seeks to establish a unity government without preconditions. Likud sources stated that there are no preconditions for a direct meeting between Netanyahu and Eisenkot, and all options are on the table.

Criticism of the talks has emerged from within the 'change bloc.' Yair Golan, chairman of the Democrats, stated before the meeting that he sees no possibility of a government with Netanyahu remaining in power, calling such discussions counterproductive. MK Yulia Malinowski of Yisrael Beiteinu harshly criticized the negotiations, comparing dealing with Netanyahu to engaging with a "Tinder con artist," suggesting he exploits perceived weakness to divide and incite.

Eisenkot, prior to the meeting, visited the Ben-Gurion Institute and his grave in Sde Boker, articulating his vision of unity. He stressed that the substance of unity, based on shared values like state education, mutual responsibility, military service, and civic duty, is more important than a political agreement for a national unity government. He described the current moment as a "historic crossroads" requiring a redefinition of unity beyond a mere political facade.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu reiterated his call for direct negotiations with Eisenkot "without preconditions," framing it as essential for Israel's security and future, and warning against a "shaky and dangerous" government. Eisenkot dismissed this as a "spin" and a "ploy," noting that Netanyahu's call came after a meeting was already scheduled and that Netanyahu continues to engage in divisive rhetoric.