Netanyahu Calls Coalition Dependent on Arab Parties ‘Outrageous,’ Says His Unity Offer Was Ignored

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the prospect of a new government relying on Arab-led parties, saying such an arrangement would be “outrageous and unbelievable” while accusing his political rivals of ignoring his call for national unity. ⠀ Speaking to Channel 14 reporter Moti Kastel after the swearing-in of Israel’s new Knesset on November 10, Netanyahu pushed back against criticism of his speech to lawmakers, in which he accused Arab parties of supporting terrorism. ⠀ “What’s outrageous is thinking of forming a government dependent on supporters of terrorism, haters of Israel, who seek to destroy the State of Israel,” he said. “That is outrageous and unbelievable.” ⠀ Later, as he walked toward a parking garage with his wife, Sara, Netanyahu said his proposal for a broad coalition had received no response. “We’re extending a hand for unity,” he said. “And when I extend my hand, no one extends a hand back.” ⠀ He added: “They say nothing. Nothing, nothing. That says it all.” ⠀ The remarks followed a contentious parliamentary speech in which Netanyahu warned against a government supported by Ra’am and the Joint List. Opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot condemned the address as divisive and canceled a planned meeting between his representatives and Netanyahu’s Likud party. ⠀ Netanyahu remains caretaker prime minister after his coalition lost its majority in the October 27 election. Eisenkot has been tasked with assembling a government, but the opposing blocs remain divided over whether Arab-led parties should help secure a parliamentary majority.