Israeli opposition likely to form government to oust Netanyahu
Jerusalem, May 30 (EFE) .- Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid took a step closer to forming a coalition government which would end Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s 12-year rule.
Naftali Bennett, leader of ultra-nationalist Yamina party, has decided to opt for a partnership with Lapid’s Yesh Atid party, according to Israeli media.
Bennett reportedly agreed he would share the office of prime minister, with him taking the position for the first two years, before being replaced by Lapid.
A spokesperson for Yamina party told Efe that Bennett is expected to hold a press conference to make an official announcement later on Sunday.
During a meeting, Bennett was backed by six of the seven Yamina legislators to form a government and avoid another round of elections, local media said.
Israel has held four elections in the past two years in efforts to end a political deadlock that has gripped the country but all have failed to secure a clear majority.
President Reuven Rivlin tasked Lapid to try and build a government after Netanyahu had failed to do so following the March polls.
Lapid’s mandate to form a government expires on Wednesday night.
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