In Knesset speech, Netanyahu calls on more coalition lawmakers to defect

Speaking at a special Knesset session convened to discuss recent terror attacks, Opposition Leader Benjamin Netanyahu repeats his congratulations to Idit Silman on her announcement that she is quitting the coalition.

“Today we are happy – congratulating MK Idit Silman on making the right decision. We all accept her with a warm embrace and open arms. Come home – to the real right, to the national camp,” Netanyahu says.

“Join Idit. Together we will form a strong national government that will take care of all Israeli citizens,” Netanyahu says in a speech that is not taking place in the plenum, which is currently undergoing renovations.

The Likud leader calls the government “weak” and says other coalition members should resign.

Only around a third of lawmakers appear to be present.