Israel’s election has left former Israeli military chief Gadi Eisenkot with 48 seats in his four-party bloc and no clear path to the 61 needed to govern, Reuters reported.
Likud, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, won 27 of the 120 Knesset seats, while Eisenkot’s Yashar party won 21. The wider groupings led by Netanyahu and Eisenkot hold 53 and 48 seats, respectively. Two parties representing Israel’s Arab minority won 19 seats combined, an unprecedented total, Reuters reported.
Eisenkot could seek Arab-party support for key issues, try to reach an agreement with ultra-Orthodox parties or pursue a unity government with Netanyahu. Reuters reported that all three paths face significant obstacles. EconoTimes previously covered the potential role of Arab-party backing in coalition talks.
Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Israel Our Home, has ruled out a unity government with Netanyahu and a minority government backed by Arab parties. Reuters reported that Lieberman could work with ultra-Orthodox parties if they support a law requiring ultra-Orthodox men to serve in the military.
Eisenkot said he wants partners to support broader national service and uphold Israel’s character as both Jewish and democratic. He also wants them to recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization and support ending its ability to wage war or govern. Herzog pointed to efforts involving Gaza, Lebanon and other neighboring states, along with concern over a possible Iranian attack, to explain the urgency, Reuters reported.
Herzog gave Eisenkot the first opportunity Saturday and formally handed him the task Sunday, Reuters reported. Eisenkot has 28 days to form a government, with a possible extension of up to 14 days. If he fails, Netanyahu is likely to get a chance; Reuters reported that new elections could follow if Netanyahu also fails.
