Eisenkot says Israel in 'devastating diplomatic crisis' as he seeks to form govt

Former Israeli military chief Gadi Eisenkot began the challenging process of forming a government on Sunday, warning that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had plunged the nation into a historic diplomatic crisis. The 66-year-old political newcomer, who vowed to bridge Israel's deep divisions under Netanyahu's rule, received a mandate from President Isaac Herzog to form a government within 28 days, despite lacking a clear majority.

Eisenkot highlighted Israel's growing isolation under Netanyahu, who faces war crimes allegations by the International Criminal Court over Israel's Gaza operations. The former military chief emphasized the urgency for new leadership capable of gaining the trust of Israelis. He extended his hand to Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud Party and far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, but insisted on being named prime minister.

Israel's President cited threats from Iran, the need to negotiate peace in Gaza, and consultations with regional neighbors as his top priorities. In the United States, Democrats secured a major victory in the midterm elections, calling for restraint following the Gaza devastation and Israel's war with Iran. Israel's most powerful ally faces pressure to reassess its relationship with the Jewish state.

The potential pathways to power for Eisenkot include forming a minority government with Arab support, a coalition with ultra-Orthodox parties, or a unity government with Netanyahu. All options present significant hurdles. Eisenkot appeared open to starting with a minority government, relying on outside votes from Arab-Israeli parties before expanding his coalition.

He stressed that Israeli democracy is at a vulnerable moment, calling for new leadership capable of gaining the trust of Israelis.