Arab-led Joint List says it will back Eisenkot to form Israel's next government

The Arab-led Joint List has announced it will support Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot in forming a new government, significantly weakening Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's chances of staying in power. This endorsement gives Eisenkot the backing of 67 lawmakers in the 120-seat Knesset, bringing him closer to the majority needed to form a government.

The Joint List, an alliance of three Arab-led factions, secured 19 seats in the recent election, positioning them as crucial players in coalition negotiations. Despite not meeting the threshold for independent government formation, the Joint List's support could undermine Netanyahu's government. The alliance has stated its decision reflects public demand to prevent Netanyahu from returning to power and aims to widen the gap between Eisenkot and Netanyahu.

However, the Arab parties have not committed to joining an Eisenkot-led government and have set conditions for potential cooperation, including recognition of Israel as a Jewish state and support for military conscription.