Netanyahu backs direct vote for PM, says Bennett as premier an ‘absurd’ notion

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backs a proposal for a special election for prime minister and attacks Yamina leader Naftali Bennett, shortly after meeting with him.

“We need a direct election. It is absurd for Bennett to be prime minister,” says Netanyahu, referring to the Shas proposal for a special vote to be called to avert a fifth round of national elections.

His comment comes minutes after his meeting with Bennett ends, after an hour and a half.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, right, speaks with then Defense Minister Yamina party leader Naftali Bennett, March 4, 2020. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)

Speaking at a Likud faction meeting, Netanyahu says: “Today is the moment of truth for Naftali Bennett. He must stop racing toward a left-wing government with Lapid and Labor. He must support a direct election [for prime minister] and back our proposal for the Arrangements Committee.

“If Bennett doesn’t do this, it means he’s partnering with the left,” says Netanyahu.