Opposition leader Binyamin Netanyahu launched fresh attacks against Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Wednesday, saying the government had failed and calling for new elections. "We need to have elections," he said during a press conference. "Most of the people have lost confidence in this government. The Knesset may not be ready for elections, but that appears to be what the public wants... The government failed in the war and the people want different leadership." | The Likud chairman likened the government to a sinking ship, "moving in circles in stormy waters." |
Netanyahu expressed optimism about his party's standing. He said he had been passed information that "a number" of Kadima MKs were interested in returning to the Likud, which they left together with former prime minister Ariel Sharon, but stressed that he was not actively involved in recruiting them. Netanyahu refused to name the Kadima MKs who allegedly expressed interest in joining the Likud.
"Netanyahu has failed the public and has been removed from office twice," a Kadima source said in response.