New Coalition Government in Israel Set to Replace Longstanding PM Netanyahu

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to be replaced in twelve days following the announcement of a new coalition government; The primary coalition consists of Naftali Bennett, Yair Lapid, and Mansour Abbas.

Wednesday evening marked the beginning of what is going to be a new era for the Jewish state following the announcement from Yair Lapid of a new coalition government, ousting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in less than two weeks. Netanyahu has been serving as Israel’s prime minister since 2009 and served one term from 1996-1999. Netanyahu has been known for his conservative, nationalist stance.

After Netanyahu failed to form a government in the 28 allotted days, President Rivlin handed the mandate over to Netanyahu’s primary opponent, Yair Lapid, of the Yesh Atid party. As of Wednesday, Yair Lapid informed the president that he was able to form a coalition government consisting of his party, Yamina, Ra’am, and others. It was the first coalition agreement ever to be signed by an Arab party.

Lapid reportedly told the president, “I commit to you, Mr. President, that this government will work to serve all the citizens of Israel including those who aren’t members of it, will respect those who oppose it, and do everything in its power to unite all parts of Israeli society.”

Abbas, representing the Arab party, said, “The decision was hard, and there were several disputes, but it was important to reach agreements.”

While there were several details involved in the multiple negotiations, at the end of the day, the chief goal was to remove Netanyahu from power – something the other parties have been determined to do for years.

Though one side of the spectrum might be celebrating, there are unquestionably those with great concern regarding the nation’s safety with Netanyahu no longer at the helm, especially in light of Iran’s ever-growing aggression.