Israeli parties begin coalition talks with all votes counted
Israeli politicians have begun talks on forming a government as the country finished counting votes in its general election, confirming neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu nor his main rival Gadi Eisenkot has a clear path to power. With all votes in, Mr Netanyahu's Likud party was the largest with 20.5 per cent of the vote – a better-than-expected result that gives Israel 's longest-serving…
Israeli political parties have commenced negotiations to form a government following the completion of the country's general election vote counting. Neither incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu nor his main challenger, Gadi Eisenkot, possess a clear path to governance, as neither party secured a majority. Despite winning the most votes, Netanyahu's Likud party fell short of the 61 seats required for a majority in the 120-member Knesset.
Egypt's President Isaac Herzog has urged for negotiations to commence, discouraging an early second election. Netanyahu's Likud secured 20.5% of the vote, while Eisenkot's Yashar party came in second with 16.1%. Arab parties made a record-breaking performance, winning 48 seats, while the right-wing alliance led by Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich won seven and six seats respectively.
The anti-Netanyahu coalition comprises leaders like Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennett, winning 12 seats, along with the centre-left Democrats with eight seats, and the Yisrael Bentenu party with seven seats. Arab parties' support could potentially grant Eisenkot a majority; however, it would be politically contentious in Israel. Talks are underway, and the final selection of a coalition leader will be made by President Herzog once the results are officially ratified.
Netanyahu remains in power and has vowed to investigate fraud allegations, possibly attempting to prevent Eisenkot from forming a minority government with Arab backing. Despite facing numerous scandals, Netanyahu has maintained control over Israel since 2009, and he may leverage this period to target Iran. Meanwhile, the US is contemplating potential strikes following the midterm elections.
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