Israel’s president taps Eisenkot to form new government

Israel's President Isaac Herzog has appointed Gadi Eisenkot to form a new government following the recent election. This move comes as a potential step towards removing the longest-serving Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. Eisenkot, a former military chief and political newcomer, has opened the door to an alliance with ultra-Orthodox Jews, which could secure enough votes for him to form a coalition government.

The opposition bloc led by Eisenkot has reached out to Arab minority members and right-leaning segments of the opposition for support, but this move faces opposition from right-leaning factions. Netanyahu, who has been leading Israel for nearly two decades, has faced corruption charges and an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court.

He has also called for a unity government, but the opposition remains firm in their demand for his removal before negotiations can begin. If Eisenkot fails to form a government within 28 days, President Herzog can grant him a 14-day extension before turning to another candidate. If no government is formed, Israel will hold fresh elections.