Opposition leaders move to oust Knesset Speaker Ohana before forming government - report

The opposition bloc has agreed to replace Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana as its first move in the new Knesset, even without a decision on who will form the next government. The speaker controls the parliamentary agenda, giving the anti-Netanyahu camp sway over votes and legislation. Possible candidates include members of Yashar, B'Yachad, Democrats, and Yisrael Beytenu.

The opposition bloc has agreed to replace Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana of the Likud as its first parliamentary move, even though no decision has been made on who will form the next government. The speaker controls the parliamentary agenda, giving the anti-Netanyahu camp influence over votes, legislation, and committee appointments even if Netanyahu remains as head of a caretaker government. The speaker is elected in an open vote requiring a majority of 120 MKs, possibly with support from Arab parties. Possible candidates include Chili Tropper, Matan Kahana, and Elazar Stern of Yashar; Merav Ben-Ari and Eitan Ginzburg of B'Yachad; Efrat Rayten of the Democrats; and Oded Forer of Yisrael Beytenu. Yashar leader Gadi Eisenkot announced he intends to negotiate a majority, establish an October 7 Commission of Inquiry, implement compulsory military service, and repeal judicial reforms. Joint List leaders said they were insulted not to have been contacted for coalition negotiations, though MK Ahmad Tibi stated his party will not join the government.