Will Eisenkot be able to form Israel’s next gov’t amid divided opposition?

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has selected opposition leader and Yashar party chairman Gadi Eisenkot to attempt to form a new government following inconclusive legislative elections. According to Euronews, the decision was announced by the president's office on Saturday evening after Herzog held consultations with political figures, including Eisenkot and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Euronews reports that factions totaling 67 members of the Knesset backed Eisenkot, while 46 members supported Netanyahu.

Eisenkot has 28 days to present a government, with the possibility of a 14-day extension, according to Globes English. The Rio Times notes he must secure 61 of the 120 seats in the Knesset. Gulf News states that while parties representing 67 parliamentary seats have recommended Eisenkot, his dependable parliamentary bloc currently accounts for 48 seats.

If Eisenkot's attempt fails, Netanyahu could remain caretaker prime minister during a period of political deadlock or fresh elections. Euronews reports that if the first mandate fails, the president can give a second leader a maximum of 28 days to form a government, followed by a third candidate who would have 14 days. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Netanyahu has called for a unity government, according to Globes English.

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