Report: Gantz told Lapid speakership was reversible in bid to thwart party split

26 March 2020, 9:20 pm

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According to the Kan public broadcaster, in Benny Gantz and Yair Lapid’s final discussion before their alliance fell apart, Gantz promised the latter that his move to nominate himself as Knesset speaker was only intended to give more time for unity negotiations with Likud.

Gantz reportedly said if he eventually decided to enter into a coalition with Netanyahu and Lapid elected to remain outside, he would promise him to support Yesh Atid’s Meir Cohen being appointed Knesset speaker instead.

Gantz also told Lapid he could have any portfolio he wanted if they entered the government together. Lapid refused.