Coalition Talks: A Political Snapshot

In depth

Following the swearing-in of the 26th Knesset, talks on forming a government continue. Senior figures in Yahadut HaTorah are signaling readiness to support Eisenkot's government from outside even without an advance conscription law, and in return are demanding budgets and laws for the Haredi public. The formation of the government also depends on the Arab parties.

Likud attacked Gadi Eisenkot, Naftali Bennett, Yair Lapid and Avigdor Liberman, claiming they intend to form a government relying on forces that, in its claim, support terrorism. At the same time, a broad national government was offered to them. Ya'akov Asher made clear that Yahadut HaTorah will not support a minority government, and Shas announced that it will continue to support Netanyahu.

Avigdor Liberman made clear that, in the absence of agreements within the bloc, he leans toward supporting Eisenkot for the post of Knesset Speaker. According to reports, contacts at intermediate levels between Likud and the Yashar party are also continuing. Eisenkot stated that his party will not give up service for all Israeli citizens, and negotiations on forming the government are still far from a deal.