Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday called on his main challenger, Benny Gantz to form a unity government with him as election results showed both men without an obvious path to a majority coalition.

In a video message, Netanyahu said although he preferred to form a right-wing coalition, the results showed it was not possible.

Netanyahu’s admission was a major development following the outcome of Israel’s general election on Tuesday which has put his status as the country’s longest-serving Prime Minister at risk.

“During the elections, I called for the establishment of a right-wing government. But unfortunately, the election results show that this is not possible,” Netanyahu said.  He went further to call on Gantz to form a broad unity government.

Although the 60-year-old Gantz has not yet responded to Netanyahu’s request, he had repeatedly called for a unity government.

It however remains unclear if he would accept such a government with Netanyahu who faces corruption charges in the weeks ahead.