BICOM

Israel’s opposition leader yesterday called for a unity Government after the 17 September election, but insisted he would not serve with Benjamin Netanyahu.

In a confusing set of statements to the media, Gantz was asked if he would support a unity government if Netanyahu accepted a US peace plan. He said: “Israel comes before all else, we will do what is best for Israel. We will present a dignified alternative to what is emerging as Netanyahu’s alliance of extremists. We will call for a unity government immediately after the elections.” Later he clarified: “I’ve come to replace Netanyahu, not to join him.”

BICOM’s poll of polls published today projects that neither a right-religious coalition led by Netanyahu or a centre-left coalition led by Gantz will be able to form a 61 seat majority Government. Avigdor Lieberman’s Yisrael Beitenu party has increased its support and is still likely to be the swing vote after the September election. According to BICOM’s aggregate poll the Likud is projected to win 30 seats, Blue and White 28, United Right 12, Joint List 11, Yisrael Beitenu 10, Democratic Union 9, Shas 7, UTJ 7, Labour-Gesher 6.

The extremist right wing party Jewish Power registered yesterday as a separate party, ending its previous union with Jewish Home, after possible merger talks with Ayelet Shaked’s United Right broke down. Jewish Power leader Itamar Ben-Gvir blamed Naftali Bennett for the failure saying: “There were officials who, for reasons of ego, blew this matter up and I direct the blame at [United Right candidate] Naftali Bennett. He apparently has an agreement with [Blue and White No. 2] Yair Lapid, and I really hope that he doesn’t establish a unity government with him.”

Likud sources warned that the divisions on the right could lead to defeat saying: “The fragmenting of the right will cost us many votes and will result in a left-wing government led by Lapid and Gantz. Voters should vote for Likud, because voting for Likud will ensure a right-wing government led by Netanyahu and prevent a left-wing government with Lapid as prime minister.”