Netanyahu bloc finishes in lead but no majority, official results show

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing coalition secured 53 seats out of the 120 in Israel's Knesset, while the opposition bloc led by centrist Gadi Eisenkot claimed 48 seats, according to the final election results released early Friday. Netanyahu's coalition is comprised of right-wing and far-right parties, with Likud as the largest single faction, holding 27 seats.

The Arab groups Raam and the United Arab List made a significant breakthrough, winning 19 seats together and potentially playing a pivotal role in coalition negotiations. The two parties faced unproven allegations of election fraud, allegedly receiving Qatari funds for vote-buying, which Netanyahu's camp alleged. However, both the Arab parties and Qatar denied these claims.

The Israeli Shin Bet domestic security agency is investigating suspected irregularities, but stated it does not intend to cast aspersions on the voting public. The Central Elections Committee investigated unsubstantiated claims and confirmed they would not impact the final results. The final results will be formally presented to President Isaac Herzog on Wednesday, who will then consult with party leaders to form a government, a process that could take weeks given the lack of a majority bloc.

If no government can be formed, Israel may face another election, as has occurred multiple times in the past.