Amit Segal: Netanyahu will consolidate his bloc - then seek a unity government

In a shocking election result, Israeli voters have expressed their deep concern over the ongoing violence and displacement of Palestinians in the occupied territories. Despite the Jewish diaspora claiming that Israel would form a government representing the election outcome, it is clear that this is not a democratic process. The country is an occupying power where Palestinians are evicted from their homes without legal recourse, as seen in Hebron.

The central issues at stake during the election were Netanyahu's leadership, his judicial coup, and the exclusion of the ultra-Orthodox from military service, rather than the humanitarian crisis in Gaza or the ongoing conflict in the West Bank.

The Palestinian population of Israel overwhelmingly voted for change, hoping to prevent further displacement and the destruction of their communities. However, the Arab parties, which make up 17 seats combined, have vowed not to form a government with the two Palestinian blocs. This decision reflects the stark reality that a Jewish state cannot be run by Arabs, whether Zionist or not. As a result, neither Netanyahu nor his partners are likely to come to power through a deal with the Palestinian blocs.

Netanyahu, the longest-serving prime minister, appears determined to cling to power, even resorting to desperate tactics like attempting to reignite the war with Iran and attempting to cast members of the military as soft on Israel's defense. His intelligence and deception have allowed him to maintain his position for so long, but now the focus is on fulfilling his father's dream.