Netanyahu and Gantz discuss unity government, plan fresh talks

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Blue and White party leader Benny Gantz discussed the possibility of setting up an emergency government to tackle the coronavirus Wednesday, taking a rare step toward a much-touted unity coalition.

The two spoke by phone and agreed negotiators from their respective parties would resume coalition talks on Thursday, according to Blue and White.

“Against the backdrop of the escalating coronavirus and the president’s appeal [for unity], the two instructed their teams to return to the negotiating table tomorrow in order to examine the possible formation of a national emergency government,” both parties said in identical statements.

Even though Netanyahu and Gantz have talked up the option of unity for the last two weeks, negotiations between their parties have failed to move forward.

Gantz was tasked on March 16 with forming a government after 61 lawmakers backed him as prime minister, and given 28 days to do so.

MORE: https://www.timesofisrael.com/netanyahu-and-gantz-discuss-unity-government-plan-fresh-talks/

Netanyahu and Gantz discuss unity government, plan fresh talks