Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu urges rival Benny Gantz to form unity government with him

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday called on his main rival, former general Benny Gantz, to join him in a broad, governing coalition after Israel’s election ended with no clear winner. A spokeswoman for Mr. Gantz, leader of the centrist Blue and White party, had no immediate response to the surprise offer from Mr. Netanyahu, head of the right-wing Likud party. The change of strategy reflected Mr. Netanyahu’s weakened position after he failed again in Tuesday’s election, which followed an inconclusive ballot in April, to secure a parliamentary majority. “During the election campaign, I called for the establishment of a right-wing government but to my regret, the election results show that this is impossible,” Mr. Netanyahu said. “Benny, we must set up a broad unity government, as soon as today. The nation expects us, both of us, to demonstrate responsibility and that we pursue cooperation.” On Wednesday, Mr. Gantz said he hoped for a “good, desirable unity government”. But he has also ruled out forming one with a Mr. Netanyahu-led Likud, citing looming corruption charges against the Prime Minister. Mr. Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing. Source: The Hindu