Prime Minister Netanyahu responded for the first time to the sudden cancellation of coalition talks by Yisrael Beytenu chairman Gadi Eisenkot, announcing that he will continue all efforts toward forming a unity government.
In the Likud's first statement following the cancellation of behind-the-scenes negotiations between Likud and Yisrael Beytenu, Netanyahu pledged to continue working toward national unity while sharply rejecting any cooperation with Arab parties in the government.
"Prime Minister Netanyahu will turn over every stone for the sake of national unity. Likud is prepared to meet with representatives of any faction that wants unity," the statement said.
Addressing criticism of his speech at the state ceremony following the Knesset plenum's swearing-in, in which he condemned cooperation with Arab parties, Likud officials said they stand firmly behind the remarks: "Prime Minister Netanyahu stands behind his words that it is impossible to cooperate with terror supporters and with those who just this evening abandoned the plenum hall during Hatikvah. It is puzzling that they cancel a meeting with Likud while continuing to advance contacts specifically with them."
The statement concluded with a renewed commitment that Likud will not give up on efforts for Zionist unity: "Prime Minister Netanyahu continues to work toward establishing a national unity government."
Shortly before the Likud response, Yisrael Beytenu publicly announced the cancellation of coalition talks that had not previously been disclosed, claiming that Netanyahu's remarks proved he can no longer take part in leading the state.
The party stated: "The outgoing prime minister lashed out this evening at Israeli citizens in what became another sad reminder, for anyone who needed further proof: Netanyahu does not want unity. As always, when choosing between the magnitude of the hour and the resilience of Israeli society versus his political survival—Netanyahu will always choose himself. At any cost."
