Lapid rejects unity govt under Netanyahu

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has ruled out the possibility of forming a unity government with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying the results of the US midterm elections have effectively ended the prospect of a national unity government under Netanyahu's leadership.

According to Arab News, Lapid said the outcome of the US elections had also influenced Israel's political landscape, leaving no room for a unity government headed by Netanyahu.

He argued that Israel could not afford to have Netanyahu remain in office, warning that his continued leadership posed a threat to the country's national security and democracy while damaging Israel's international reputation.

Lapid said Israel needed a government capable of ensuring national security and improving the country's standing in the international community.

Meanwhile, Yair Golan, leader of Israel's opposition Democrats party, also criticised Netanyahu, saying the US election results demonstrated that his policies faced opposition among both Democratic and Republican circles in the United States.

Golan warned that the continuation of Netanyahu's government could push Israel towards greater international isolation and possible sanctions, while further straining its relations with Washington.

The remarks reflect growing criticism from Israeli opposition leaders over Netanyahu's leadership and its implications for Israel's domestic and international position.