Netanyahu and rival Eisenkot deadlocked as both claim mandate in Israel election

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his rival, Gadi Eisenkot, are locked in a tight race to form a government following Israel's election on October 7, 2023. Both candidates found themselves short of the majority needed to govern, with exit polls predicting around 51 seats for each. Eisenkot, a former military chief and political newcomer, claimed that Netanyahu, who has led the country for decades with a hard-right agenda, had lost the mandate of the people.

In a bid to prevent a unity government, Eisenkot warned Netanyahu against using Israel's security for political gains. Despite the close contest, Eisenkot vowed to form a government and work towards a more inclusive atmosphere, while Netanyahu called for a "strong government of the right" and hinted at a potential third bombing campaign against Iran.

The election, marked by record-high turnout, also saw a surge in Arab Israeli voter participation, leading to significant gains for Arab parties.