Netanyahu meets Ben-Gvir, Smotrich as opposition leaders hold coalition talks
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich attending the Knesset, February 7, 2024; illustrative. (photo credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90) Yashar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Likud of attempting to undermine the legitimacy of Israel's election results, while Yair Lapid urged the public to remain patient as negotiations to form the next government continued behind the scenes. The statements came amid uncertainty over the composition of the next government following Tuesday's election, with neither political bloc securing a clear majority in the 120-seat Knesset. Meanwhile, leaders of the bloc seeking to replace Netanyahu held meetings on Thursday in several configurations, some involving the Ra'am party. Democrats chairman Yair Golan met separately with Ra'am chairman Mansour Abbas, Eisenkot, and Lapid, while B'Yachad party chairman Naftali Bennett held meetings with Eisenkot and Golan. Go t...