Netanyahu’s Allies Push for Unity Government with Rival Eisenkot
As Israel heads to the polls, allies of PM Netanyahu are exploring a potential unity government with rival Gadi Eisenkot to ensure stability.
As Israel prepares for a high-stakes election this Tuesday, a surprising political maneuver is unfolding behind the scenes. According to a report by the Washington Post, allies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are actively promoting the possibility of a national unity government with his primary rival, Gadi Eisenkot, following the polls.
A Strategic Shift Toward Moderation
The potential partnership represents a significant tactical pivot for Netanyahu. Sources indicate that the Prime Minister has privately informed officials from Europe and the United States that teaming up with Eisenkot could provide him a pathway to lead a more moderate coalition. Such an arrangement would allow him to govern without relying on far-right allies, specifically including Itamar Ben Gvir, the leader of Jewish Power.
Furthermore, Netanyahu has positioned himself to US officials as the most capable and strongest partner for a renewed joint US-Israeli campaign aimed at countering Iran.
The Trump Factor and Polling Pressures
The movement toward a unity government reportedly has international backing. US President Donald Trump, a frequent endorser of Netanyahu, is said to be receptive to the idea. A Likud Party official noted that Trump's primary interest is the swift establishment of a stable and reliable Israeli government immediately following the election.
The urgency is underscored by recent opinion surveys. Data from polls that closed on Friday suggest that Gadi Eisenkot is currently leading Netanyahu. Crucially, neither candidate's current coalition appears to have the "magic number" of 61 seats required to secure a majority in the government.
Clashing Narratives: Security vs. Accountability
Despite the behind-the-scenes talks of unity, the public rhetoric remains fiercely divided:
- Netanyahu's Stance: The Prime Minister is framing the election as a battle against a "dangerous left-wing government." In a late-night message on Monday, he warned voters that an Eisenkot-led government might rely on Arab parties, urging citizens to vote exclusively for Likud to prevent this outcome.
- Eisenkot's Stance: The opposition bloc is centering its campaign on accountability for the October 7 massacre, demanding an independent commission of inquiry. Eisenkot, viewed as a security hawk, has labeled Netanyahu "dangerous" for Israel's security, insisting that the Prime Minister must exit office immediately after the results are tallied.
What Happens Next?
If Eisenkot rejects the partnership and coalition negotiations hit a dead end, Netanyahu may remain in office as a caretaker prime minister while seeking yet another election.
The formal process following Tuesday's vote is as follows:
- Presidential Consultation: President Isaac Herzog will consult with the leaders of the elected parties.
- The Mandate: The President will task the lawmaker he believes is most likely to form a government. This individual has 28 days to build a coalition, with a possible 14-day extension.
- Alternative Options: Should the first attempt fail, a second leader may be given 28 days to try. If that also fails, a group of 61 Members of the Knesset (MKs) can request that the President assign the task to a specific lawmaker for a final 21-day period.