Neither candidate possesses an immediate route to the 61-seat threshold in the 120-member Knesset, prompting discussions around alternative arrangements such as a rotating unity government or a minority coalition. Eisenkot's tally depends heavily on Arab-led parties that face strict inclusion conditions, while Netanyahu suffered setbacks after an ultra-Orthodox faction withheld support over military exemption policies. Consequently, President Isaac Herzog must navigate these conflicting political red lines to determine which leader has the best chance to assemble a stable administration.
Key points
Neither political leader currently commands a guaranteed path to reach the 61-seat parlia…: Neither political leader currently commands a guaranteed path to reach the 61-seat parliamentary majority.
Political factions remain deeply divided over potential alliances with ultra-Orthodox par…: Political factions remain deeply divided over potential alliances with ultra-Orthodox parties and Arab-led parliamentary factions.
Benjamin Netanyahu could remain in office as prime minister if the ongoing deadlock preve…: Benjamin Netanyahu could remain in office as prime minister if the ongoing deadlock prevents a new government from forming.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
Palestinian-led parties have backed Eisenkot in a bid to oust Netanyahu, but the prime minister could stay on if no government is formed.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog must decide who gets the first attempt at forming a government, after an inconclusive election left both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main rival, former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, short of a parliamentary majority.
Herzog has said he will task a candidate with forming a government on Sunday. Eisenkot has received the endorsement of a majority of lawmakers – but only thanks to parties representing Palestinian citizens of Israel, which won a record 19 seats in October’s election, but whom Eisenkot has ruled out bringing into government.
Recommended Stories
list of 3 items- list 1 of 3Israel’s election commission rejects Likud’s fraud claims, confirms results
- list 2 of 3Joint List says it will back Eisenkot to form Israel’s next government
- list 3 of 3Israel’s President Herzog to name candidate to form government on Sunday
Climate and justice campaigners brought construction work to a complete standstill on Friday in Amsterdam's Sloterdijk district. Activists targeted the planned facility to protest against the heavy ecological toll of artificial intelligence infrastructure while alleging the site would assist Israeli military actions. Police intervened to clear the location, taking scores of participants into custody.
Medical professionals at Breach Candy Hospital confirmed the veteran politician is stable following treatment for bronchitis and a chest infection. The 85-year-old leader is returning home to recuperate after a multi-day stay that drew visits from high-profile political and business figures. His discharge marks a positive turn after receiving specialized observation across healthcare facilities in both Pune and Mumbai.
Christopher Luxon and Chris Hipkins are contending for leadership as early returns show neither major bloc holding a clear route to power. Following a six-week campaign marked by voters shifting toward minor political factions, coalition negotiations will likely determine the final government. The centrist Opportunity party may wield decisive leverage after polling showed it could secure seats in parliament.