The surprising unity government shocked Israeli politics, unleashing harsh criticism from opposition members, and praise from members of the Likud-led governing coalition. President Shimon Peres praised the move, while former leader of the opposition Tzipi Livni came out in criticism of the move. Israel Labor Party leader Shelly Yacimovich slammed the maneuver as the most ridiculous zig-zag in Israel's political history. She also said that the move created a unique opportunity for the Israel Labor Party to lead the opposition.