Eisenkot rejects Netanyahu's unity appeal, calls it political 'tricks'

Jerusalem - Israel's caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged for a national unity government with his rival Gadi Eisenkot on Saturday, but Eisenkot rejected the appeal, labeling it a political trick. The proposal for a unity government emerged as Eisenkot was finalizing negotiations to assume the role of premier on Sunday.

Netanyahu, in a video statement, emphasized the necessity of a national unity government to ensure Israel's security and eliminate the Iranian threat, asserting that such a government would comprise parties that acknowledge Israel as a state for the Jewish people and address security concerns, particularly Iran's potential nuclear weapon use.

He cautioned against Eisenkot's plan to form a minority government, arguing that it would only result in a weak and dangerous administration. Eisenkot responded, accusing Netanyahu of playing tricks by demanding a unity government while negotiations were already in progress and alleging that the former prime minister sows division and tensions.

The opposition has nominated Matan Kahana, an ex-Israeli army officer and fifth on Eisenkot's list, to become the speaker of the Knesset, potentially disrupting Netanyahu's unity government plans.