Israel's president formally gives Eisenkot the first chance to form the next government

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has given opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot the first opportunity to form the next Israeli government on Sunday evening. After the formal announcement, Eisenkot must now initiate complex negotiations with potential coalition partners, with a six-week deadline to establish a government. The Oct. 27 election failed to produce a clear majority for either Netanyahu's bloc or Eisenkot in parliament.

Among the key potential allies, the Arab-led parties have made historic gains and were a target of Netanyahu and his supporters. Eisenkot outlined the conditions for parties to join his governing coalition, emphasizing support for Israel as a Jewish and democratic state, its declaration of independence, military service, and recognizing Hamas as a terrorist organization.

The announcement doesn't guarantee Eisenkot's role, but it further weakens Netanyahu, who lost his parliamentary majority in the election. Netanyahu's coalition dropped from 68 seats to just 53. Eisenkot has three options: a power-sharing agreement with Netanyahu, support from Arab-led parties, or an agreement with ultra-Orthodox parties.

Eisenkot, a former army chief, emphasized equal military service during his campaign. The ultra-Orthodox parties demand military exemptions for their community. Eisenkot must form a coalition within 28 days, with a potential two-week extension from the president. If he fails, Netanyahu could attempt to form a coalition, and if he also fails, the country will hold early elections next spring.