Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday called on his main rival, former general Benny Gantz, to join him in a broad, governing coalition after Israel’s election ended with no clear winner.
A spokeswoman for Mr. Gantz, leader of the centrist Blue and White party, had no immediate response to the surprise offer from Mr. Netanyahu, head of the right-wing Likud party.
The change of strategy reflected Mr. Netanyahu’s weakened position after he failed again in Tuesday’s election, which followed an inconclusive ballot in April, to secure a parliamentary majority.
“During the election campaign, I called for the establishment of a right-wing government but to my regret, the election results show that this is impossible,” Mr. Netanyahu said.
“Benny, we must set up a broad unity government, as soon as today. The nation expects us, both of us, to demonstrate responsibility and that we pursue cooperation.”
On Wednesday, Mr. Gantz said he hoped for a “good, desirable unity government”. But he has also ruled out forming one with a Mr. Netanyahu-led Likud, citing looming corruption charges against the Prime Minister. Mr. Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing.
