Israel’s political future remains uncertain as election officials process the final absentee ballots following Tuesday’s national vote. With 91% of the vote counted, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc is projected to secure 53 seats, trailing the opposition grouping led by Gadi Eisenkot, which is currently at 48 seats.
The election has resulted in a significant surge for Palestinian parties, which are on track to capture a record 19 seats in the Knesset. Because neither Netanyahu nor Eisenkot has secured a governing majority, these parties have emerged as potential kingmakers. Eisenkot now faces a pivotal decision: attempt to form a minority government with the ad hoc support of Palestinian lawmakers or risk a stalemate that could lead to new elections or a unity government.
Political Tensions and International Scrutiny
The path to a new government is expected to involve weeks of complex negotiations. Amid the ongoing count, the Likud party has filed a complaint with the Central Elections Committee, alleging irregularities regarding the Arab-led parties. The committee has stated it will review the claims, which the Likud party has used to demand investigations by security services.
Meanwhile, international observers are closely monitoring the transition. UN rights chief Volker Turk expressed hope that the incoming government would shift its policy course and ensure strict adherence to international humanitarian law. As the Central Elections Committee continues to finalize the tally, the focus shifts to whether opposition leaders can bridge the divide to form a viable coalition.
