Israeli unity government sidelines pro-settler party
Israel's impending unity government leaves out pro-settler Yamina, which accuses Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of using it before pushing it out of the new coalition.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu notified President Reuven Rivlin on May 13 that he has assembled a majority-supported government. Shortly after his notice, Likud and Blue and White together with their other political partners submitted to the Knesset the signed coalition agreements ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of their national unity government (scheduled for tonight, May 14). The coalition also submitted to the Knesset a document outlining its policy principles. A few minutes ago, Likud and Blue and White announced that the swearing-in ceremony will be postponed to Sunday, May 17, because Netanyahu has not finished distributing the ministerial portfolios.
In Israel, coalition agreements make the basis for the establishment of a new government and anchor the support of a majority of Knesset members in the new cabinet to be presented. The agreements must be submitted to the Knesset at least 24 hours before the parliament holds a vote of confidence in the new government.
