Rivlin welcomes Netanyahu call for unity government

President Reuven Rivlin says he welcomes Prime Minister Benajamin Netanyahu's call to Blue and White leader Benny Gantz for the two parties to form a unity goverment.

Under Israeli law, Rivlin - who commands wide respect in Israel in his largely ceremonial position - is the one to tap a party leader to try to form a government after the final vote tally is in. The total count is expected later Thursday.