Three hours before the 11:59 p.m. April 13 deadline to compose a new government, Blue and White leader Benny Gantz called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to make the tough decision to sign onto an agreement for a unity government.

Gantz delivered his statement after a long day of talks. Earlier in the day, negotiations on the establishment of a coronavirus-emergency government exploded over perceptions that Netanyahu was backtracking from everything that had been agreed upon. Both sides finally went back to the negotiating table, with Gantz championing a responsible and stately approach, saying he wouldn’t close the door to a national unity government.

During the day, Gantz considered releasing a combative announcement with an ultimatum: If Netanyahu did not respect earlier understandings and sign the unity agreement, Gantz would advance legislation preventing an indicted politician (Netanyahu) from heading a government. Eventually, Gantz decided against it, with the assumption that he could harshen his tone later on in talks.

Responding to Gantz’s call, Netanyahu tweeted, “Benny, I am waiting for you at the premier’s official residence in Jerusalem. Come over and we can sign already tonight the establishment of a national-emergency government that would save lives and would function for the benefit of Israeli citizens.’’