In an expected move, the Likud Central Committee on Monday 13 Cheshvan 5773 approved the agreement with Yisrael Beitenu which means the two parties will run under a joint list in the upcoming national election. According to polls, the union will net the joint party over 40 seats; putting the Likud in a position of significant power.

Prime Minister Binyamin told opponents the union will not mark the end of Likud as some fear, but it will strengthen the party and ensure in the coming government it will be able to run the nation more in line with the party line as opposed to have to compromise critical issues to maintain the coalition.

The prime minister succeeded in winning over the forum and the deal was ratified in an overwhelming majority. Mr. Netanyahu was also authorized to set the order of the party lineup which will not include Likud and Yisrael Beitenu members.

Amid talk of new party leadership, Mr. Netanyahu added, “I have heard much talk about successors but I intend to lead the nations for many years to come.”

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)