Israel president gives Netanyahu's rival 1st chance to form new govt after deadlocked election

In a recent turn of events, Israel's President Isaac Herzog has bestowed the first opportunity upon his rival, Gadi Eisenkot, to attempt the formation of a new government following a deadlocked election, according to Reuters. This follows a general election in which no single coalition managed to secure a majority in Israel's Parliament, known as the Knesset.

However, a minor party within Netanyahu's coalition, which secured seven seats, has chosen not to back Eisenkot in this instance. Consequently, Eisenkot now has 28 days to assemble a government and assume the role of the new Prime Minister, thereby displacing Netanyahu from power.

If Eisenkot is unable to form a government within the stipulated timeframe, the President retains the authority to grant a 14-day extension or appoint an alternative individual he deems capable of garnering the confidence of parliament. Eisenkot may also explore the possibility of seeking the support of Israeli Arab parties, comprising politicians of Arabian ethnicity who are citizens of Israel.

These parties garnered a combined total of 19 seats, with their success attributed to high voter turnout from Israeli Arabs who were incensed by Netanyahu's military strikes in Gaza and disparaging comments made by right-wing Israelis.

Seeking support from these Israeli Arab parties, however, may potentially strain the backing of other constituents within Eisenkot's existing coalition. The extent of concessions these parties might demand in exchange for endorsing Eisenkot as the future Prime Minister of Israel remains to be determined.