Netanyahu to Bring Elections Forward
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- Published on Monday, 07 May 2012 12:45
PNN
On Monday, 7th May, Israeli Prime Minister called for early elections, a decision came after the possibility of Israeli military strike on Iran. Netanyahu is keen to strengthen his mandate to discuss domestic and foreign policy issues, including Iran's nuclear program.
Netanyahu suggested at a conference of his Likud party, that the vote that was originally scheduled for autumn 2013 should be brought forward to this September.
"I believe we will get a renewed mandate from the citizens of Israel to continue to lead the country, we will form a government as soon as possible," said Netanyahu, " I won't accept an election campaign that lasts for a year and a half and damage the state, a short campaign of four months is better."
Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party is considered the biggest winner, which will allow him to form a new coalition government.
Opinion polls suggest the Likud will win at least 31 seats, followed by the left-wing Labour party with 20, and the ultra right-wing Israel Beiteinu party with 12 seats.
Analysts say the decision to call elections forward in Israel has been also influenced by America's announcements of presidential elections. Netanyahu is afraid that US president Barack Obama will be against Israeli strike on Iran.
If Netanyahu wins the elections, his new coalition partners may still want to attack Iran, particularly in the Absence of US support.
