Netanyu dropping, opposition parties agree to form new government

Israel's opposition parties have reached an agreement to form a new government that would end Benjamin Netanyahu's 12-year mandate as prime minister, reports the BBC.

Yair Lapid, leader of the central Yesh Attid party, announced that the coalition unity agreement was successful, Periscopi broadcast.

Under a rotating agreement, right-wing party leader Yamina, Naphtali Bennett, would serve as prime minister before surrendering Mr. Lapid.

There must still be a parliamentary vote before the government can swear.

In a statement, Mr. Lapid said he informed President Raven Rivlin of the deal.

I promise that this government will work in service to all Israeli citizens, those who voted it and those who did not. It will respect its opponents and do everything in its power to unite and connect all parts of the Israelite society. ”

Mr. Rivlin has called on parliament to meet as soon as possible to hold the confidence vote.

If the coalition fails to win support from a 120-seat majority, there is a risk that the country will go to the polls for the fifth time in two years.

Mr. Netanyah, Likud, won more seats in the non-final March poll, but he was unable to form a governing coalition after being given the mandate. / P ERISCOPI/