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It was reported over the weekend that Labour leader Isaac Herzog and Hatnuah head Tzipi Livni are close to agreement over forming a joint electoral list. However, Livni is expected to meet with Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid later today to explore possible cooperation.

Herzog and Livni are thought to have held discussions in Washington this weekend, where both were attending the Saban Forum, a high-profile policy gathering. Speaking at the event, Herzog predicted that he would become the next prime minister. Livni meanwhile told Channel Two, “We must join forces and create a situation where there is energy and there is hope. Once there is hope that we can replace [Prime Minister] Netanyahu.” Livni’s Hatnuah faction would reportedly receive three guaranteed spots on a joint list with Labour. A recent Globes poll indicated that a Labour-Hatnuah alliance would win 24 seats.

However, according to Israel Radio news, Livni will meet with Yair Lapid later today, to discuss a possible partnership with his Yesh Atid faction instead. Apparently, Lapid is prepared to offer Livni’s party four spots on a joint electoral list.

Meanwhile, Jewish Home leader Naftali Bennett also addressed the Saban Forum on Saturday night. Bennett said that he and Netanyahu had agreed not to attack each other during the campaign, as both “want to form a strong national bloc.” The pledge comes despite a history of acrimonious relations between Netanyahu and Bennett.

Rumours persisted over the weekend that former-Interior Minister Gideon Sa’ar will make a dramatic return to politics after a two-month break, by challenging Netanyahu for the Likud Party leadership at a primary scheduled for 6 January. Maariv reports that Sa’ar has told activists he will make up his mind by Thursday.

Today, the Knesset is expected to take second and third votes which will confirm that the parliament is dissolved and that elections will take place on 17 March. The legislative process will be frozen during the interim period.