Eisenkot dismisses Netanyahu’s unity government proposal

Israel's caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated on Saturday his calls for a national unity government with opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot. However, Eisenkot dismissed Netanyahu's proposal as a ruse, describing it as "racist." The former army chief was appointed as the next Prime Minister on Sunday, with a deadline of 28 days to form a government, including a possible extension of 14 days.

Netanyahu asserted that such a unity government would be essential to guarantee Israel's security, particularly in addressing the threat posed by Iran. He proposed a government composed of parties that recognize Israel as a state for the Jewish people, intending to tackle security challenges. Netanyahu cautioned against Eisenkot's intention to form a minority government, stating that it would allow his bloc to vote in favor of his government without an absolute majority in the Knesset, which comprises 120 members.

Eisenkot responded by accusing Netanyahu of making false claims and attempting to sow division and tensions. The opposition has nominated Matan Kahana, a former army officer and fifth on Eisenkot's list, as the new Speaker of the Knesset, to be elected on Tuesday, in opposition to Netanyahu's choice, Amir Ohana, a close ally.