Israel election exit polls: Netanyahu, Eisenkot deadlocked as both blocs fall short of majority

Exit polls from Israel's recent election show a tight race between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc and the opposition, neither securing a majority. The opposition, led by Yair Golan's Democrats, is projected to gain 50-53 seats, while Netanyahu's Likud bloc is expected to win 24-25 seats. The Joint List and Ra'am together could provide 17-18 seats, potentially crucial for coalition negotiations.

However, opposition leaders have dismissed the possibility of forming a coalition with Arab parties, barring the Democrats. Netanyahu's bloc remains the largest party, with Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar projected to win 21-23 seats. Voter turnout was the highest since 1973. The exit polls suggest a unity government between Netanyahu and Eisenkot is unlikely, as the latter has rejected serving under Netanyahu.

The small right-wing parties may not meet the 3.25% threshold, complicating efforts to secure a majority. While a minority government is a possibility, opposition within the opposition bloc could hinder this arrangement. Official results will only be determined after counting ballots. The political deadlock may lead to another election, but coalition negotiations could still result in an agreement between the parties.