Gadi Eisenkot, the political newcomer tasked with forming Israel's government

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has selected opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot to attempt to form a new government following an inconclusive election that left no clear winner. Eisenkot, a former military chief and chairman of the centrist Yashar party, was chosen after Herzog held consultations with political parties. According to Euronews, factions totaling 67 members of the Knesset backed Eisenkot, while 46 members supported Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Eisenkot has 28 days to present a government, with a possible 14-day extension available. Gulf News reports that while 67 parliamentary seats have recommended Eisenkot, his dependable parliamentary bloc currently accounts for 48 seats. If Eisenkot fails to form a coalition, Netanyahu could remain caretaker prime minister, or the country could face further political deadlock or fresh elections.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has called for a unity government, according to Globes English. Euronews notes that if the initial attempt to form a government fails, the president can give a second leader a maximum of 28 days to complete the task, followed by a third candidate with 14 days if requested by the Knesset.

Brief written by urgent.news from Le Monde English, Daily Times, Globes English, Gulf News, Euronews — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.