"Edelstein’s removal from the position of Knesset speaker was Blue and White’s swiftest achievement in the negotiations," says official familiar with the coalition talks. Meanwhile, Yamina is unhappy with Netanyahu’s current offer of portfolios, still undecided about joining the next government.
While similar efforts have floundered on technical grounds, High Court Justice Isaac Amit orders PM Netanyahu, Blue and White leader Benny Gantz, and their factions to address the issues raised.
Former Blue and White co-chairman erstwhile ally Benny Gantz, saying unity government with Netanyahu taints both with corruption. Likud sources: Netanyahu needs right-wing faction Yamina in his cabinet.
There’s one achievement Netanyahu will not agree to concede: annexation of settlements in Judea and Samaria and applying Israeli sovereignty over them and the Jordan Valley.
The government, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the various political factions have until this Thursday at 2 p.m. to respond to appeals filed against the decision to task Netanyahu with forming the next government.
Article 29 of the 14-page agreement allows Netanyahu, who under the rotation deal with Blue and White's Gantz will remain the PM for the next 18 months, to present the potential annexation of areas in Judea and Samaria for the Knesset's approval as early as July.
Talks break down over Judges Selection Committee; Blue and White leader expected to launch legislation that would prevent Netanyahu from serving as prime minister.
While Blue and White and the Likud reported progress in negotiations held over the weekend, Blue and White is taking pains to guarantee that a rotation for prime minister takes place as planned.
Talks between Likud, Blue and White continue to stall after President Reuven Rivlin gives Knesset three weeks to task an MK with forming a government. If parliament fails, Rivlin has set Aug. 4 as the date for possible fourth general elections.
Parliament will have three weeks to agree on a prime minister. Further deadlock moves Israel closer to a fourth consecutive election in just over a year.
