Israeli Parliament to vote on a new government, ousting PM Netanyahu

The Israeli Knesset will vote on establishing a new government today.

The vote comes after centrist party Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid agreed to form a coalition government with Naftali Bennett—leader of far-right party Yamina—following the March legislative election in which no party won a majority. If approved, this government will end Benjamin Netanyahu’s 12-years as prime minister.

Despite Netanyahu’s protestations, expect the vote to approve the creation of a new coalition government. Under the coalition agreement between Yesh Atid and Yamina, Bennett will become prime minister for two years, with Lapid taking over at the end of this period.

Bennett is a noted proponent of the construction of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and has vowed to continue these efforts. Expect him to prioritize these endeavors upon entering office. However, this agenda is unlikely to garner support among other coalition members. The complex alliance formed with the primary goal of removing Netanyahu from office and with each faction holding markedly different political stances and goals. Thus, expect intra-coalition tensions to rapidly flair up, preventing cooperation and blocking initial policy efforts.