JERUSALEM: Gadi Eisenkot has been tasked with forming Israel’s next government by President Isaac Herzog, marking a major political setback for outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the country’s October 27 parliamentary elections.
Herzog announced his decision on Saturday, November 7, after consultations with political parties represented in the 120-member Knesset. Eisenkot, leader of the opposition Yashar party and a former military chief, secured recommendations from 67 lawmakers, compared with 46 who backed Netanyahu.
Eisenkot has been given 28 days to assemble a governing coalition, with a possible extension of 14 days under Israeli law.
Gadi Eisenkot to Form New Government After Securing Support of 67 Lawmakers
The president’s decision followed several days of political consultations amid efforts to determine which candidate had the strongest prospects of forming a stable government.
Although Eisenkot received support from a majority of lawmakers during the consultations, his path to securing a parliamentary majority remains uncertain. His opposition bloc holds 48 seats, while Arab-led parties, which collectively hold 19 seats, also endorsed his bid.
However, disagreements over cooperation with Arab-led factions and differences among potential coalition partners could complicate negotiations.
Netanyahu’s Likud party emerged as the largest single party in the elections, winning 27 seats. However, his broader political bloc secured only 53 seats, falling short of the 61 required for a parliamentary majority.
Netanyahu Calls for Unity Government Amid Political Uncertainty
Following Herzog’s announcement, Netanyahu reiterated his call for a broad national unity government, warning against an administration dependent on Arab-led parties.
Eisenkot, meanwhile, has indicated his willingness to pursue a national emergency government under his leadership.
If Eisenkot fails to secure sufficient parliamentary support within the allotted period, Israel could face further political uncertainty, potentially leading to another attempt at government formation or fresh elections.
The latest development marks a significant turning point in Israeli politics after Netanyahu’s long-standing hold on power faced a major electoral challenge.
