Eisenkot and Lieberman Seek Ultra-Orthodox Support for Government

Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yachad party, and Avigdor Lieberman, head of Yisrael Beiteinu, agreed during a meeting on Monday to attempt forming a government that includes the ultra-Orthodox parties. Political correspondent Nadiv Alemalek reported this development. Lieberman requested a delay to pursue negotiations with the ultra-Orthodox, aiming to prevent the swift formation of a government reliant on Arab support. Yisrael Beiteinu also intends to seek the chairmanship of the Finance Committee, with Oded Forer expected to lead it. Lieberman reportedly told Eisenkot, "You will be prime minister. Give negotiations time to win over the ultra-Orthodox, and abandon forming a government based on the Arabs." Eisenkot is reportedly planning to swear in a government after replacing the Knesset speaker to control the process, and is not expected to use the full mandate period. His plan is to declare "I have succeeded in forming a government" as soon as possible. The "change bloc" is also working to bring right-wing Knesset members, particularly from Likud, into the government. Eisenkot plans to finalize coalition agreements and the distribution of portfolios later this week.