With clock ticking, Netanyahu and Gantz say will continue to work on forming government

Prime Minister Netanyahu and Blue and White chairman Benny Gantz discuss efforts to form a new government, a joint statement parties says.

“[They] discussed the progress in the fight against the coronavirus, the gradual return to routine and the establishment of a coronavirus cabinet” that will focus on the pandemic, according to the statement.

They also agree “to continue to work in coordination” next week in the Knesset “to form an emergency and unity government soon.”

Next week will be a make or break situation for the prospective new government, as the Knesset will automatically dissolve on May 7 if no MK secures majority backing to assemble a coalition before then, leading to fresh elections.

Before the deadline, the High Court of Justice will hear petitions against the coalition deal between the prime minister’s Likud and Blue and White, as well against the tasking of Netanyahu with forming a government due to his indictment on graft charges.

Likud and Blue and White must also complete the legislative process to anchor their coalition deal in law.