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Arab Parties in Israel Back Benny Gantz in Bid to End Netanyahu’s Rule

HeadlineSep 23, 2019

In Israel, a major coalition of Arab parties has endorsed ex-army chief Benny Gantz, in what they say is an effort to prevent another term for Benjamin Netanyahu and “end his political career” after last week’s elections. The group, known as the Joint List, says, however, they do not support Gantz’s policies. The group has not backed a candidate for prime minister since 1992. Gantz declared victory last week after his Blue and White party gained two more parliamentary seats than Netanyahu’s Likud party. This is Ahmad Tibi, a lawmaker from the Joint List.

Ahmad Tibi: “Our recommendation is historical, and the results are so important, not for Arabs only, but for Jews and Arabs and for the whole area. It is also a slap on the face, not only of Benjamin Netanyahu, but President Trump, who supported Benjamin Netanyahu, supported all the atrocities and is arranging to present one of the most racist, anti-Palestinian plan, so-called the ultimate deal.”

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin must now designate someone to form a new government. He says he’s meeting with Gantz and Netanyahu tonight. Netanyahu is facing indictments over three corruption cases and is expected to be charged in the coming weeks or months.

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