Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s fifth government was officially sworn in on Sunday; This brings an end to the 508-day political lockdown that consisted of three separate elections.

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s fifth government was officially sworn in, bringing an end to the 508-day political spiderweb. The Knesset approved the new government voting 73-46. Netanyahu is to be Prime Minister for the next 18 months with Benny Gantz of the Blue & White Party taking the premiership thereafter.

In an interview, Netanyahu stated, “We established the precise terms under which our agreement will be fulfilled and will not be fulfilled. I will fulfil exactly, but exactly, what is written in the agreement. It is my intention and my goal to do so. And there is no reason for me to say anything to you but, yes, that’s what we will do.”

Prior to the ceremony, Netanyahu also stated, “The time has come for anyone who believes in the justness of our rights in the Land of Israel to join a government led by me to bring about a historic process together.”, with the annexation of several regions likely to happen in the coming weeks.

After the swearing-in ceremony, Netanyahu prioritized his agenda with his new government saying that the number one priority right now is the coronavirus. Following the virus on his list is rebooting the Israeli economy, and dealing with Iran and the new pending investigation from the International Criminal Court (ICC).

The swearing-in of the new coalition government allowed the Israeli’s to avoid a potential fourth round of elections.