Netanyahu Averts Election With “Emergency” Coalition

Axios reports:

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former rival Benny Gantz signed a deal on Monday to form a “national emergency government,” ending more than a year of political deadlock in which Israel was forced to hold three elections.

Facing corruption charges and protests, Netanyahu will remain in office as prime minister — just weeks after it seemed like his political career was over. Netanyahu’s trial has been postponed until May 24 as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

The agreement culminates a stunning about-face by Gantz, the leader of the centrist Blue and White Party who campaigned on ousting Netanyahu from office. It also means Israel will avoid going to the polls for a fourth election.