Netanyahu and top rival face postelection choices that could redefine Israeli politics

Israeli politicians grappled with a politically uncertain future on Wednesday following an election that tested Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's authority and hinted at the potential for alliances between Jewish and Arab parties to unseat him. Official results may be announced as early as Thursday evening, though no incumbent is anticipated to secure a decisive victory.

Arab-led parties achieved a historic level of success, but it remains uncertain whether they would collaborate with Netanyahu's right-wing government to achieve a parliamentary majority. The contentious issue of Israel's identity as a state for the Jewish people has been reignited, as debates surrounding the rights of Palestinians and their descendants persist.

Netanyahu cautioned against the formation of a "dangerous government" that could include Arab parties, which account for 20% of the country's population. Despite leading the vote count, Netanyahu's Likud party claimed that Tuesday's election was "stolen" by Arab parties and called for an investigation.