Israel’s President Isaac Herzog has tasked Yashar leader Gadi Eisenkot with attempting to form the country’s next government after October’s general election produced no outright parliamentary majority.
The decision follows consultations with political parties represented in the Knesset, with Eisenkot receiving the greatest number of recommendations to lead coalition negotiations.
Eisenkot now has 28 days, with the possibility of a 14-day extension, to secure a governing coalition. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will remain caretaker prime minister while negotiations continue.
Key developments
- Isaac Herzog selected Gadi Eisenkot to lead coalition talks.
- No political bloc secured the 61-seat majority required in the 120-member Knesset.
- Coalition negotiations are expected to focus on potential support from Arab and ultra-Orthodox parties, or the possibility of a national unity government.
Gadi Eisenkot has pledged to pursue what he describes as a national emergency government focused on restoring political stability, strengthening democratic institutions, expanding compulsory national or military service, and maintaining pressure on Hamas while seeking to improve Israel’s international standing.
However, many of these priorities will depend on the composition of any coalition, with negotiations expected to require significant compromises on issues including relations with Arab parties, ultra-Orthodox military exemptions and domestic governance.
As a result, any new government is likely to influence Israel’s domestic policy and regional diplomacy, but its room for manoeuvre will ultimately be shaped by the balance of power in the Knesset.
ℹ️ BBC News