Eisenkot Bloc Nominates Matan Kahana as Knesset Speaker, Liberman to Head Defense Committee

A new political move has taken place in Israel. Ahead of the swearing-in of the country’s 26th Knesset and the process of forming a new government, the political bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot has chosen candidates for key positions.

The bloc has nominated former minister and lawmaker Matan Kahana for the post of Knesset speaker. Former Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman is set to head the powerful Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

The agreement came after long talks among political parties before the swearing-in of the 26th Knesset. The four-party coalition led by Eisenkot controls 48 of the Knesset’s 120 seats.

Last Sunday, Israeli President Isaac Herzog formally asked Gadi Eisenkot to form the government. Eisenkot received recommendations from 67 lawmakers, while his rival Benjamin Netanyahu received 46 recommendations.

Mr. Eisenkot now has 28 days to form the government. The deadline can be extended by another 14 days if needed.

Candidates Chosen for Other Key Posts

As part of the new agreement, candidates have also been chosen for other important Knesset posts.

Liran Avishar Ben-Horin from the Tahel or Yashar bloc has been nominated to head the Finance Committee. Roy Folkman has been nominated to head the Knesset Arrangements Committee.

Opposition parties are working to remove Amir Ohana, the current Knesset speaker from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud Party.

However, Mr. Ohana said he would call a debate within one week on choosing his successor if a majority of lawmakers formally demanded it.

The formation of the parliamentary committees is expected to be finalised and presented to the Knesset for approval this week.

Source: Anadolu Agency