After exit polls, Netanyahu declares victory for right-wing, Likud

Likud leader Benjamin Netanyahu is declaring electoral victory based on exit poll results showing his party getting over 30 seats and enough to form a majority — with the support of Yamina.

“Israeli citizens, thank you,” Netanyahu tweets. “You gave a huge win to the right and Likud under my leadership. Likud is the biggest party by far … It’s clear most Israelis are right-wing, and want a strong, stable right-wing government.”

Netanyahu speaks by phone to Yamina leader Naftali Bennett, who indicates he may play hard to get, telling his erstwhile partner that he’ll only be ready to get down to brass tacks once the actual results are in. He says his decisions will be guided by what’s best for the country.