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Thousands of Israelis gathered in central Tel Aviv to protest the unity government that kept Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in power even as he gets ready to go to trial on corruption charges

Israel: Anti-unity government protests in Tel Aviv

Thousands of demonstrators wearing masks and following social distancing measures hit streets in Israel on Saturday to protest the coming together of rivals Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz to form the government.&nbsp;

The protesters, who gathered in coastal city of Tel Aviv denounced Netanyahu-Gantz's deal, calling it Netanyahu's manoeuvering as he is facing corruption charges. &nbsp;

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About 2,000 demonstrators participated in the protest, according to Israeli media.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-death-toll-crosses-200000-mark-294801">Global coronavirus death toll crosses 200,000 mark</a>

Chants against "corruption" and for "safeguarding democracy" were raised by the protesters who were following social distancing rules and wearing face masks to avoid the spread of novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

Protesters said that Netanyahu is threatening democracy and several amongst them waved black flags with some holding placards that said: "The people against the government."

As per the deal agreed upon by both the leaders, Netanyahu will serve as the prime minister for the first half of a three-year-term, and Gantz will then take over the premiership from him in October next year.

Gantz, ex-General, will serve as defence minister during Netanyahu's term and the next elections would be held 18 months later.&nbsp;

The deal came after both Netanyahu and Gantz failed to get a complete majority in spite of three general elections and would end a 16-month deadlock.&nbsp;

Earlier, Netanyahu in January became the first Israel prime minister to be indicted following charges of bribery, fraud, among others.&nbsp;

Netanyahu's trial was supposed to be open in March but postponed until May 24.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Thousands of demonstrators wearing masks and following social distancing measures hit streets in Israel on Saturday to protest the coming together of rivals Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz to form the government.

Thousands of demonstrators wearing masks and following social distancing measures hit streets in Israel on Saturday to protest the coming together of rivals Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz to form the government. The protesters, who gathered in coastal city of Tel Aviv denounced Netanyahu-Gantz's deal, calling it Netanyahu's manoeuvering as he is facing corruption charges. Israel protests: Unity government faces backlash More details inside! #Israel pic.twitter.com/MZNUQ8ZRq6 — WION (@WIONews) April 26, 2020 × About 2,000 demonstrators participated in the protest, according to Israeli media. Also read | Global coronavirus death toll crosses 200,000 mark Chants against "corruption" and for "safeguarding democracy" were raised by the protesters who were following social distancing rules and wearing face masks to avoid the spread of novel coronavirus. Protesters said that Netanyahu is threatening democracy and several amongst them waved black flags with some holding placards that said: "The people against the government." As per the deal agreed upon by both the leaders, Netanyahu will serve as the prime minister for the first half of a three-year-term, and Gantz will then take over the premiership from him in October next year. Gantz, ex-General, will serve as defence minister during Netanyahu's term and the next elections would be held 18 months later. The deal came after both Netanyahu and Gantz failed to get a complete majority in spite of three general elections and would end a 16-month deadlock. Earlier, Netanyahu in January became the first Israel prime minister to be indicted following charges of bribery, fraud, among others. Netanyahu's trial was supposed to be open in March but postponed until May 24.

With face masks, thousands protest in Israel against Netanyahu-Gantz government

Israel has emerged as the country where there is a possibility of the fourth election in just 12 months. PM Benjamin Netanyahu and former army chief Benjamin Gantz have agreed for a unity government for three years. Watch report.

Israel: Netanyahu to fight graft charges as PM, Gantz, Netanyahu to rotate as PM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and one-time rival parliament speaker Benny Gantz reached a deal on Monday to form an emergency unity government, ending the country's worst political crisis.

"An agreement for the establishment of a national emergency government is now being signed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Blue and White (alliance) chairman... Benny Gantz," a joint statement said.&nbsp;

Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving premier and head of the right-wing Likud party,&nbsp; and Gantz failed to form a government after three&nbsp;inconclusive elections over the past year.&nbsp;

Neither had secured enough support to form a viable governing coalition in any of the votes. &nbsp;

As the COVID-19 epidemic intensified following the last election on March 2, calls mounted for them to unite and offer the country a rare period of political calm as it battles an unprecedented health crisis.&nbsp;

After being mandated to form a government by President Reuven Rivlin, Gantz was elected speaker of Israel's parliament, the Knesset, last month in a surprise move.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and one-time rival parliament speaker Benny Gantz reached a deal on Monday to form an emergency unity government, ending the country's worst political crisis.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and one-time rival parliament speaker Benny Gantz reached a deal on Monday to form an emergency unity government, ending the country's worst political crisis. "An agreement for the establishment of a national emergency government is now being signed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Blue and White (alliance) chairman... Benny Gantz," a joint statement said. Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving premier and head of the right-wing Likud party, and Gantz failed to form a government after three inconclusive elections over the past year. Neither had secured enough support to form a viable governing coalition in any of the votes. As the COVID-19 epidemic intensified following the last election on March 2, calls mounted for them to unite and offer the country a rare period of political calm as it battles an unprecedented health crisis. After being mandated to form a government by President Reuven Rivlin, Gantz was elected speaker of Israel's parliament, the Knesset, last month in a surprise move. (With inputs from AFP)

Israel's Netanyahu, Gantz agree emergency unity government

Wearing face masks, carrying black flags and keeping two metres away from each other, thousands of Israelis held a demonstration against prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (April 19) under strict coronavirus restrictions.

Anti-Netanyahu rally draws thousands under coronavirus curbs

Wild Boars take over Israeli streets while people beat lockdown blues

Israel began easing movement restrictions on Sunday while pointedly avoiding announcing any exit from an ongoing lockdown to forestall the spread of coronavirus.

A cabinet vote in the early hours of the morning approved several measures, including a reopening of high street shops, schools for children with special educational needs and a resumption of small scale prayer meetings, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-overtakes-iran-with-over-82000-coronavirus-cases-293367">Turkey overtakes Iran with over 82,000 coronavirus cases</a>

Most of the measures take effect from Sunday, while the selected schools will reopen their doors to pupils on Tuesday, according to the education ministry.&nbsp;

Prayer gatherings of up to 19 people at a time will be allowed, on condition that they take place in the open air with people wearing masks and at least two metres apart -- higher than a limit of 10 people initially proposed by the prime minister on Saturday.&nbsp;

As part of social distancing, places of worship for all faiths had previously been closed and from April 12 wearing face masks in public became mandatory.

In a televised address on Saturday, Netanyahu had outlined "a responsible and gradual" plan allowing the return of some workers to offices and industry.

With Ramadan set to begin in the coming days, the premier urged Muslims in Israel to have "meals only with your nuclear family."

Israel, which has a population of around nine million, confirmed its first coronavirus patient on February 21.&nbsp;

Israel has more than 13,360 confirmed cases of the illness, with 171 fatalities.

Its health ministry says that more than 3,500 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital.

The past few days have seen a slowdown in new confirmed cases. &nbsp;

But Netanyahu warned that if infection rates started climbing again there would be a fresh clampdown.

"If we see that in two weeks' time the improving trend continues, there will be further easing," he said.

"If there should be an additional outbreak of corona(virus), we shall be obliged to backtrack."

Finance Ministry Director-General Shai Babad spoke in the same broadcast.

"It is important to stress that this is not the start of an exit strategy, we are not returning to normal," he said.&nbsp;

Israel was an early and tough responder to the health crisis.

In late February it started barring travellers arriving from virus hotspots, gradually extending restrictions to a near-total air travel ban.&nbsp;

Then came regulations barring Israelis from leaving their homes except to go to the supermarket, pharmacy or hospital.&nbsp;

Netanyahu stressed that Israel's rapid and tough response had proved effective compared to other states that were slower to impose restrictions.&nbsp;

"In Belgium, which is more or less the same size as us, there are over 5,000 deaths... these are not pointless comparisons," he said.&nbsp;

Israel began easing movement restrictions on Sunday while pointedly avoiding announcing any exit from an ongoing lockdown to forestall the spread of coronavirus.

Israel began easing movement restrictions on Sunday while pointedly avoiding announcing any exit from an ongoing lockdown to forestall the spread of coronavirus. A cabinet vote in the early hours of the morning approved several measures, including a reopening of high street shops, schools for children with special educational needs and a resumption of small scale prayer meetings, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said. Also read | Turkey overtakes Iran with over 82,000 coronavirus cases Most of the measures take effect from Sunday, while the selected schools will reopen their doors to pupils on Tuesday, according to the education ministry. Prayer gatherings of up to 19 people at a time will be allowed, on condition that they take place in the open air with people wearing masks and at least two metres apart -- higher than a limit of 10 people initially proposed by the prime minister on Saturday. As part of social distancing, places of worship for all faiths had previously been closed and from April 12 wearing face masks in public became mandatory. In a televised address on Saturday, Netanyahu had outlined "a responsible and gradual" plan allowing the return of some workers to offices and industry. With Ramadan set to begin in the coming days, the premier urged Muslims in Israel to have "meals only with your nuclear family." Israel, which has a population of around nine million, confirmed its first coronavirus patient on February 21. Israel has more than 13,360 confirmed cases of the illness, with 171 fatalities. Its health ministry says that more than 3,500 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital. The past few days have seen a slowdown in new confirmed cases. But Netanyahu warned that if infection rates started climbing again there would be a fresh clampdown. "If we see that in two weeks' time the improving trend continues, there will be further easing," he said. "If there should be an additional outbreak of corona(virus), we shall be obliged to backtrack." Finance Ministry Director-General Shai Babad spoke in the same broadcast. "It is important to stress that this is not the start of an exit strategy, we are not returning to normal," he said. Israel was an early and tough responder to the health crisis. In late February it started barring travellers arriving from virus hotspots, gradually extending restrictions to a near-total air travel ban. Then came regulations barring Israelis from leaving their homes except to go to the supermarket, pharmacy or hospital. Netanyahu stressed that Israel's rapid and tough response had proved effective compared to other states that were slower to impose restrictions. "In Belgium, which is more or less the same size as us, there are over 5,000 deaths... these are not pointless comparisons," he said.

Israel eases coronavirus restrictions

A medical centre in Israel has found a way to enable families to say goodbye to the body of their loved ones if they die from COVID-19.

Israeli hospital finds way for families to say goodbye

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country.

The bunker, “National Management Centre” as it is officially called was built ten years ago, Reuters reported. This was at the peak of worries about Iran’s nuclear programme and its increasing contact with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Islamist movement and a Palestinian militant group, Hamas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shifting-discourse-mexican-protesters-demand-blanket-closure-of-border-with-us-as-covid-19-cases-rise-288868" hreflang="en">Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise</a>

The facility has living quarters and facilities of command, which can be directly accessed from the government complex in Jerusalem.

“This (bunker) is another tool for managing, controlling, oversight and tracking the coronavirus",an Israeli official who requested anonymity told Reuters.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-coronavirus-ventilators-are-required-288773/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We understand that this crisis will accompany us for an extended period of time yet”, the source further said.

However, Naftali Bennett, the Defence Minister, during an interview on radio said that the bunker is irrelevant to the crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-to-categorise-american-counties-based-on-coronavirus-risk-288855" hreflang="en">White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk</a>

“We are not under a missile attack that would require us to be underground”, Bennett said.

Earlier, the Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz joked about the bunker on the radio. “The bunker protects from bombs, not microbes”, he had&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

3,035 Israelis have so far tested positive for the coronavirus, with the majority of cases mild and 79 recoveries. Ten patients have died and 49 are critical.

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country.

A war bunker situated in the Jerusalem hills has been reopened by the Government of Israel as a back-up facility if the coronavirus crisis deepens in the country. The bunker, “National Management Centre” as it is officially called was built ten years ago, Reuters reported. This was at the peak of worries about Iran’s nuclear programme and its increasing contact with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Islamist movement and a Palestinian militant group, Hamas. Also read: Shifting discourse? Mexican protesters demand blanket closure of border with US as COVID-19 cases rise The facility has living quarters and facilities of command, which can be directly accessed from the government complex in Jerusalem. “This (bunker) is another tool for managing, controlling, oversight and tracking the coronavirus",an Israeli official who requested anonymity told Reuters. “We understand that this crisis will accompany us for an extended period of time yet”, the source further said. However, Naftali Bennett, the Defence Minister, during an interview on radio said that the bunker is irrelevant to the crisis. Also read: White House to categorise American counties based on coronavirus risk “We are not under a missile attack that would require us to be underground”, Bennett said. Earlier, the Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz joked about the bunker on the radio. “The bunker protects from bombs, not microbes”, he had said. 3,035 Israelis have so far tested positive for the coronavirus, with the majority of cases mild and 79 recoveries. Ten patients have died and 49 are critical.

Israel to reopen war bunker as a coronavirus containment zone?

Israel's ex-military chief Benny Gantz called for an emergency unity government after being elected parliament speaker Thursday, likely leading to an alliance with his rival Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to tackle coronavirus.&nbsp;

"These are unusual times and they call for unusual decisions," Gantz told the Knesset, Israel's parliament, after his election to the post of speaker.&nbsp;

"That is why I intend to explore the formation of an emergency unity government," he added.

His words and election as speaker come after Israel's third inconclusive national polls in less than a year on March 2.&nbsp;

Gantz, a centrist, and the right-wing Netanyahu have both failed to secure enough support to form a stable coalition following each of the three national elections. &nbsp;

The coronavirus pandemic, including more than 2,600 confirmed Israeli cases, has spurred widespread calls for a temporary unity government to end the deadlock.&nbsp;

"The people of Israel are justifiably looking to us and expecting us to keep supporting the sacred battle against coronavirus and its effects," Gantz said.&nbsp;

While attention has immediately turned to details of the expected unity deal, Gantz's move has also triggered an apparent break-up of his centrist bloc.&nbsp;

Top allies of Blue and White, the centrist party he led, on Thursday announced a break with Gantz, likely over his willingness to strike a deal with Netanyahu. &nbsp;

Israel's ex-military chief Benny Gantz called for an emergency unity government after being elected parliament speaker Thursday, likely leading to an alliance with his rival Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to tackle coronavirus.

Israel's ex-military chief Benny Gantz called for an emergency unity government after being elected parliament speaker Thursday, likely leading to an alliance with his rival Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to tackle coronavirus. "These are unusual times and they call for unusual decisions," Gantz told the Knesset, Israel's parliament, after his election to the post of speaker. "That is why I intend to explore the formation of an emergency unity government," he added. His words and election as speaker come after Israel's third inconclusive national polls in less than a year on March 2. Gantz, a centrist, and the right-wing Netanyahu have both failed to secure enough support to form a stable coalition following each of the three national elections. The coronavirus pandemic, including more than 2,600 confirmed Israeli cases, has spurred widespread calls for a temporary unity government to end the deadlock. "The people of Israel are justifiably looking to us and expecting us to keep supporting the sacred battle against coronavirus and its effects," Gantz said. While attention has immediately turned to details of the expected unity deal, Gantz's move has also triggered an apparent break-up of his centrist bloc. Top allies of Blue and White, the centrist party he led, on Thursday announced a break with Gantz, likely over his willingness to strike a deal with Netanyahu.

Israel's Gantz calls for 'emergency unity government'

Israeli bride and groom Roni Ben-Ari and Yonatan Meushar, danced in the near-deserted hall on Wednesday (March 18) with most of their family and friends watching from their screens via livestream.

'Just the two of us': Love in the age of coronavirus

How Israel's elite spy agency Mossad is fighting coronavirus

Ester Wienrib rang in her 97th birthday this week with a video call and remote cake-cutting with her great-grandchildren - a cautious celebration as her family tries to avoid exposing her to the coronavirus.

Video calls and birthday candles: Celebrating 97 in the age of coronavirus

Israel's internal security agency Shin Bet confirmed Tuesday it has been mandated to collect information about citizens to fight the spread of the deadly coronavirus, a task it was undertaking with "immediate" effect.

The measure was declared by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu late on Monday under emergency regulations, after a parliamentary committee tasked with green-lighting the move refused to give it final approval, saying it needed more time.

The government "authorised the Shin Bet to put its advanced technologies in the service of the national effort to reduce the spread of coronavirus," a Shin Bet statement said Tuesday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/coronavirus-outbreak-how-middle-east-is-dealing-with-the-global-pandemic-286708">Coronavirus outbreak: How Middle-East is dealing with the global pandemic</a>

A Shin Bet spokesperson separately told the source that the policy has taken "immediate" effect.

Involving the spy agency in the fight against coronavirus sets "a dangerous precedent", according to Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler of the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI), speaking before the emergency regulations.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In the Shin Bet statement, agency chief Nadav Argaman said the agency was approached by the health ministry to help track coronavirus carriers "after it emerged that other authorities in the state do not have the necessary technologies".

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-crisis-delays-start-of-netanyahu-corruption-trial-286472">Coronavirus crisis delays start of Netanyahu corruption trial</a>

"The Shin Bet is aware this is a task that goes beyond its routine anti-terror activities, therefore the request was discussed with and approved by the attorney general, with oversight and regulating mechanisms established," Argaman said.

Netanyahu's office refused to provide details about the monitoring techniques to be used.

But copies of the emergency regulations leaked to Israeli media showed that police would be able to retrieve location data of coronavirus carriers as well as quarantined people from phone companies, without a court order.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-israels-spyder-us-made-air-defence-weapon-system-is-required-for-indias-defensive-capability-285623">Why Israel's SPYDER &amp; US-made Air Defence Weapon System is required for India's defensive capability</a>

The Shin Bet would also be able to use the location data of coronavirus carriers for the 14 days preceding their diagnosis "to identify their routes and the people with whom they came in contact with," the leaked copy of the decision said.

'No active penetration'

Argaman said the information would be given to the health ministry and not saved by the Shin Bet.

He stressed that given the severity of the crisis Shin Bet had a responsibility to use its "unique skills" to help contain the pandemic.

Netanyahu had on Saturday said he wanted "technologies used in the war against terror" deployed against the COVID-19 disease.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-ex-army-chief-gantz-gets-a-shot-at-forming-government-286736">Israel's ex-army chief Gantz gets a shot at forming government</a>

His cabinet then approved the measures last Sunday.

But after the parliamentary committee delayed its approval, referring the issue to the new Knesset sworn in yesterday, Netanyahu announced that his cabinet would authorise the measures under emergency powers.

A security official told the source on Monday the Shin Bet would not conduct "active penetration into phones" and "there won't be cyber-attacks."

But using the security agency in a health crisis set "a dangerous precedent," said Shwartz Altshuler, who heads the IDI's Democracy in the Information Age programme.

Watch: Israel: After months of political deadlock, Oppn leader Gantz has been asked to form the govt

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-after-months-of-political-deadlock-oppn-leader-gantz-has-been-asked-to-form-the-govt-286647/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"What if tomorrow they're called in for an economic emergency?"

By drawing in a clandestine security agency to deal with a civilian health crisis, Shwartz Altshuler said, "Israel is not aligning itself with the democracies."

Netanyahu's continued tenure as premier is uncertain, with President Reuven Rivlin on Monday formally handing centrist rival Benny Gantz a mandate to try to form a new government.

Gantz has been given 28 days to put together a coalition, after he garnered recommendations from 61 out of 120 lawmakers on Sunday, in the wake of an election held on March 2 - Israel's third national polls within a year.

Israel's internal security agency Shin Bet confirmed Tuesday it has been mandated to collect information about citizens to fight the spread of the deadly coronavirus, a task it was undertaking with "immediate" effect.

Israel's internal security agency Shin Bet confirmed Tuesday it has been mandated to collect information about citizens to fight the spread of the deadly coronavirus, a task it was undertaking with "immediate" effect. The measure was declared by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu late on Monday under emergency regulations, after a parliamentary committee tasked with green-lighting the move refused to give it final approval, saying it needed more time. The government "authorised the Shin Bet to put its advanced technologies in the service of the national effort to reduce the spread of coronavirus," a Shin Bet statement said Tuesday. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: How Middle-East is dealing with the global pandemic A Shin Bet spokesperson separately told the source that the policy has taken "immediate" effect. Involving the spy agency in the fight against coronavirus sets "a dangerous precedent", according to Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler of the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI), speaking before the emergency regulations. In the Shin Bet statement, agency chief Nadav Argaman said the agency was approached by the health ministry to help track coronavirus carriers "after it emerged that other authorities in the state do not have the necessary technologies". Also see: Coronavirus crisis delays start of Netanyahu corruption trial "The Shin Bet is aware this is a task that goes beyond its routine anti-terror activities, therefore the request was discussed with and approved by the attorney general, with oversight and regulating mechanisms established," Argaman said. Netanyahu's office refused to provide details about the monitoring techniques to be used. But copies of the emergency regulations leaked to Israeli media showed that police would be able to retrieve location data of coronavirus carriers as well as quarantined people from phone companies, without a court order. Also read: Why Israel's SPYDER & US-made Air Defence Weapon System is required for India's defensive capability The Shin Bet would also be able to use the location data of coronavirus carriers for the 14 days preceding their diagnosis "to identify their routes and the people with whom they came in contact with," the leaked copy of the decision said. 'No active penetration' Argaman said the information would be given to the health ministry and not saved by the Shin Bet. He stressed that given the severity of the crisis Shin Bet had a responsibility to use its "unique skills" to help contain the pandemic. Netanyahu had on Saturday said he wanted "technologies used in the war against terror" deployed against the COVID-19 disease. Also see: Israel's ex-army chief Gantz gets a shot at forming government His cabinet then approved the measures last Sunday. But after the parliamentary committee delayed its approval, referring the issue to the new Knesset sworn in yesterday, Netanyahu announced that his cabinet would authorise the measures under emergency powers. A security official told the source on Monday the Shin Bet would not conduct "active penetration into phones" and "there won't be cyber-attacks." But using the security agency in a health crisis set "a dangerous precedent," said Shwartz Altshuler, who heads the IDI's Democracy in the Information Age programme. Watch: Israel: After months of political deadlock, Oppn leader Gantz has been asked to form the govt "What if tomorrow they're called in for an economic emergency?" By drawing in a clandestine security agency to deal with a civilian health crisis, Shwartz Altshuler said, "Israel is not aligning itself with the democracies." Netanyahu's continued tenure as premier is uncertain, with President Reuven Rivlin on Monday formally handing centrist rival Benny Gantz a mandate to try to form a new government. Gantz has been given 28 days to put together a coalition, after he garnered recommendations from 61 out of 120 lawmakers on Sunday, in the wake of an election held on March 2 - Israel's third national polls within a year.

Israel spy agency joins anti-virus fight

In Israel, President Reuven Rivlin decided on Sunday to give opposition leader Benny Gantz the first chance to form a new government as part of a general election this month. This is seen as a shock to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israel: After months of political deadlock, Oppn leader Gantz has been asked to form the govt

Israel's President Reuven Rivlin will on Monday formally ask Benny Gantz to try to form the country's next government, after the ex-military chief secured recommendations from a majority of lawmakers.&nbsp;

"Tomorrow, around midday, the president will assign the task of forming the government to (the) head of Kachol Lavan... Benny Gantz," Rivlin's office said in a statement Sunday, using the Hebrew name for Gantz's centrist Blue and White party. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-leads-in-israeli-election-but-still-lacks-majority-to-form-government-284048">Netanyahu leads in Israeli election, but still lacks majority to form government</a>

An official tally from Rivlin's office said 61 lawmakers recommended Gantz, with 58 supporting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after a third general election in less than a year held on March 2. Israel's parliament, the Knesset, is comprised of 120 seats.

But there is no guarantee that the disparate forces who supported Gantz on Sunday will agree on terms on a stable coalition, something that proved impossible following the two inconclusive elections last year.

On top of support from Blue and White and a smaller centre-left alliance, Gantz was also recommended by the mainly Arab Joint List and the secular, nationalist Yisrael Beiteinu party.&nbsp;

Aside from being anti-Netanyahu, the Joint List and Yisrael Beiteinu have almost no political common ground.&nbsp;

Netanyahu's alliance, seen as more cohesive, includes his right-wing Likud as well as its religious, nationalist ally Yemina and two ultra-Orthodox parties.&nbsp;

Rivlin also summoned both Gantz and Netanyahu for talks to take place later on Sunday, following calls for a unity alliance to confront the deadly new coronavirus.

A presidency statement said Rivlin wanted to have "an urgent conversation this evening... regarding the possibility of immediately establishing a government."

Rivlin has previously stressed the need to avoid a fourth election and stressed the urgency of quickly forming a government to combat the pandemic.&nbsp;

"This is a time of trial," Rivlin said earlier Sunday. &nbsp;

"We must now deal with forming a government as soon as possible, (so) that we lead our people at this complex time." 
&nbsp;

Israel's President Reuven Rivlin will on Monday formally ask Benny Gantz to try to form the country's next government, after the ex-military chief secured recommendations from a majority of lawmakers.

Israel's President Reuven Rivlin will on Monday formally ask Benny Gantz to try to form the country's next government, after the ex-military chief secured recommendations from a majority of lawmakers. "Tomorrow, around midday, the president will assign the task of forming the government to (the) head of Kachol Lavan... Benny Gantz," Rivlin's office said in a statement Sunday, using the Hebrew name for Gantz's centrist Blue and White party. Also read: Netanyahu leads in Israeli election, but still lacks majority to form government An official tally from Rivlin's office said 61 lawmakers recommended Gantz, with 58 supporting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after a third general election in less than a year held on March 2. Israel's parliament, the Knesset, is comprised of 120 seats. But there is no guarantee that the disparate forces who supported Gantz on Sunday will agree on terms on a stable coalition, something that proved impossible following the two inconclusive elections last year. On top of support from Blue and White and a smaller centre-left alliance, Gantz was also recommended by the mainly Arab Joint List and the secular, nationalist Yisrael Beiteinu party. Aside from being anti-Netanyahu, the Joint List and Yisrael Beiteinu have almost no political common ground. Netanyahu's alliance, seen as more cohesive, includes his right-wing Likud as well as its religious, nationalist ally Yemina and two ultra-Orthodox parties. Rivlin also summoned both Gantz and Netanyahu for talks to take place later on Sunday, following calls for a unity alliance to confront the deadly new coronavirus. A presidency statement said Rivlin wanted to have "an urgent conversation this evening... regarding the possibility of immediately establishing a government." Rivlin has previously stressed the need to avoid a fourth election and stressed the urgency of quickly forming a government to combat the pandemic. "This is a time of trial," Rivlin said earlier Sunday. "We must now deal with forming a government as soon as possible, (so) that we lead our people at this complex time."

Israel: Benny Gantz given chance to form government

Anyone arriving in Israel will need to go through a 14-day quarantine, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced as part of an effort to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

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PM Netanyahu, following the discussions: 
"After a day of complex discussions, we have made a decision: Whoever arrives in Israel from abroad will enter quarantine for 14 days. <a href="https://t.co/AxrNZsddRn">pic.twitter.com/AxrNZsddRn</a>
— PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1237094374506401797?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The measure will apply immediately for all Israeli citizens returning to the country, and it will take effect for non-citizens on Thursday.

Foreign nationals who cannot prove to officials they have the resources to self-quarantine for two weeks will not be allowed to enter the country. The measure will last for two weeks.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-coronavirus-has-unveiled-chinas-ugliest-face-280074">WION Edit: Coronavirus has unveiled China's ugliest face</a>

"This is a tough decision, but it is essential to maintain public health - and public health precedes everything," Netanyahu said in a public statement.

Israeli researchers have been hard at work developing a vaccine. Ofir Akunis, Israel’s minister of science and technology, praised scientists at the Galilee Research Institute (MIGAL) who said they could have a vaccine ready in three weeks and ready for distribution in 90 days.

“Congratulations to MIGAL on this exciting breakthrough. I am confident that there will be further rapid progress, enabling us to provide a needed response to the grave global COVID-19 threat,” Okunis said in response to the news.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-why-who-is-not-calling-coronavirus-a-pandemic-yet-284192">Wion Edit: Why WHO is not calling coronavirus a pandemic yet?</a>

Israel's 14-day quarantine is one of the more drastic responses to the spread of the novel coronavirus, dubbed COVID-19 by the WHO. Italy, which has been the most affected country in Europe, has turned their entire state into a 'red zone' and banned public gatherings, but they are dealing with over 9,000 reported cases and nearly 500 deaths.

Israel, thus far, has 42 reported cases of the coronavirus and no deaths.

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Anyone arriving in Israel will need to go through a 14-day quarantine, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced as part of an effort to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

Anyone arriving in Israel will need to go through a 14-day quarantine, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced as part of an effort to combat the spread of the coronavirus. PM Netanyahu, following the discussions: "After a day of complex discussions, we have made a decision: Whoever arrives in Israel from abroad will enter quarantine for 14 days. pic.twitter.com/AxrNZsddRn — PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) March 9, 2020 × The measure will apply immediately for all Israeli citizens returning to the country, and it will take effect for non-citizens on Thursday. Foreign nationals who cannot prove to officials they have the resources to self-quarantine for two weeks will not be allowed to enter the country. The measure will last for two weeks. Also Read: WION Edit: Coronavirus has unveiled China's ugliest face "This is a tough decision, but it is essential to maintain public health - and public health precedes everything," Netanyahu said in a public statement. Israeli researchers have been hard at work developing a vaccine. Ofir Akunis, Israel’s minister of science and technology, praised scientists at the Galilee Research Institute (MIGAL) who said they could have a vaccine ready in three weeks and ready for distribution in 90 days. “Congratulations to MIGAL on this exciting breakthrough. I am confident that there will be further rapid progress, enabling us to provide a needed response to the grave global COVID-19 threat,” Okunis said in response to the news. Also Read: Wion Edit: Why WHO is not calling coronavirus a pandemic yet? Israel's 14-day quarantine is one of the more drastic responses to the spread of the novel coronavirus, dubbed COVID-19 by the WHO. Italy, which has been the most affected country in Europe, has turned their entire state into a 'red zone' and banned public gatherings, but they are dealing with over 9,000 reported cases and nearly 500 deaths. Israel, thus far, has 42 reported cases of the coronavirus and no deaths.

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