Likud and Kadima Unite

In a dramatic move, the Likud and Kadima parties agreed on a unity government early Tuesday, averting the prospect of early elections. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Kadima Chairman Shaul Mofaz finalized the surprising unity agreement hours before the Knesset was expected to set September 4th as the date of the next elections. PM Netanyahu announced that Kadima's Mofaz will be appointed deputy PM and minister without portfolio, while also being included in Israel's security cabinet. The newly formed unity cabinet was created to advance the main issues Israel faces at this time- a wide government, according to Netanyahu could advance "a responsible peace process." The deal, reached overnight, will form a 94-seat coalition, the largest coalition in Israel's history.

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Category: Politics