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Lapid calls Netanyahu to congratulate him on win

PM Yair Lapid has issued instructions for an orderly transfer of power.

Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid leads a Cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, July 3, 2022. Credit: Marc Israel Sellem/POOL.
Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid leads a Cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, July 3, 2022. Credit: Marc Israel Sellem/POOL.

Prime Minister Yair Lapid called opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday evening to congratulate him on his victory in the election.

“The State of Israel is above all political considerations. I wish Netanyahu success for the sake of the people of Israel and the State of Israel,” Lapid said.

He informed Netanyahu that he had instructed all branches of government to prepare for an orderly transfer of power.

With more than 4.7 million votes officially counted, or more than 99.87% of the total ballots cast in Israel’s election, Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc secured 64 seats in the 120-member Knesset. Netanyahu hopes to form a coalition within two weeks, according to reports.

Lapid has come under harsh criticism from members of his own coalition for what they deem a disastrous campaign.

“[Lapid] behaved like a cannibalistic pig who tried to eliminate [the other parties in his bloc] in order to be the biggest one, and this is the result,” said one official, according to Channel 12.

“America stands shoulder to shoulder with our indispensable partner Israel,” the ambassador said.
The university said it awarded Milei the degree “in recognition of his long-standing partnership with the State of Israel and his public international fight against antisemitism.”
“The dual campaign reflects the direct connection between the sacrifice and bravery of our heroic IDF soldiers and the very existence and independence of the State of Israel,” said Ofir Akunis, Israel’s consul general.
“May the memory of the fallen of Israel’s wars and the victims of acts of terrorism be blessed forever.”
“The IDF will continue to operate to clear the area under its control,” the military stated.
“Both terrorists posed an immediate threat to the troops,” the military said.