Netanyahu, Lapid, and Gantz Consider Coalition Amid Gaza Conflict

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz, engaged in discussions today regarding the possibility of forming a coalition government in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Both opposition leaders expressed their willingness to join forces, albeit with certain conditions.

Lapid insisted on the removal of ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir as a prerequisite for their collaboration, citing their far-right affiliations. However, Gantz, the former defense minister and chairman of the state camp, stated his willingness to serve in the government alongside them.

Netanyahu proposed the creation of a broad emergency government, citing historical precedence, akin to when opposition leader Menachem Begin joined the Eshkol government on the eve of the Six-Day War. He asserted that this idea was initially raised by him following a security update.

Lapid emphasized the urgency of setting aside political disputes during this state of emergency, suggesting the establishment of a professional, limited emergency government to efficiently manage the complex and protracted conflict. He argued that the current composition of the cabinet was ill-suited for handling the situation.

However, later in the evening, Lapid's party, Yesh Atid, clarified that they would not enter the government with ministers from the extreme right-wing.

On the other hand, the state camp proposed the formation of an emergency government without preconditions, including Ben Gvir and Smotrich. They expressed a desire to have the capacity to make critical security decisions and vowed not to dismantle the government during the conflict.

A meeting between Lapid and Gantz took place in the evening but ended without an agreement. While Gantz favored immediate entry into the government without conditions, Lapid remained steadfast in his refusal to collaborate with Smotrich and Ben Gvir. Their opposition to these ministers had been a longstanding issue since the government's formation.

Efrat Reiten, a member of the Labor faction, voiced support for the government during the war, despite her disagreements with its composition. She called for the immediate removal of extremist elements from the government and the appointment of experienced and responsible professionals.

Likud MK Eli Dellal also advocated for the establishment of a unity government, asserting that it is the need of the hour.

The discussions continue as Israel grapples with the ongoing crisis in Gaza, with leaders weighing their options for a united front to address the security situation.