Israel’s final election results confirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc lost its majority of parliamentary seats following Tuesday’s elections. The results released early on Friday showed that Netanyahu’s bloc won 53 seats, the main opposition bloc secured 48, and Arab-led parties achieved a historic showing with 19 seats. Political parties now face weeks of difficult negotiations to team up for at least 61 seats in the 120-seat Knesset. Centrist politician Yair Lapid urged patience, noting that the hardest part of the process is beginning.
Difficult decisions lie ahead as parties debate potential partnerships, including whether the main opposition will partner with Arab-led parties or join Netanyahu in a unity government. The election results must be certified and submitted to the president next Wednesday. President Isaac Herzog will then task a leader to form the new government, potentially Netanyahu or another candidate best suited according to party leaders. If multiple attempts to form a government fail, Israel faces a new election early next year, though Herzog stated he will do everything to avoid that scenario.
Prior to the final results, Netanyahu and his Likud party amplified unsubstantiated allegations that Arab-led parties stole the election, which the opposition accused of demonizing the Arab population. The head of Israel’s election committee asked the Shin Bet security agency to investigate serious suspicions of foreign interference, though the election commission stated the investigation does not affect the final results. Even as coalition negotiations begin, the new Knesset is expected to be sworn in on November 10, with hundreds of Israelis holding rallies urging the opposition to join forces with Arab-led parties.
No comments yet. Be the first to comment.