Joint List backs Gadi Eisenkot, giving him majority support in Knesset

Joint List, the main Arab coalition, announced Thursday that it will put forward Yashar chief Gadi Eisenkot to President Isaac Herzog as the candidate for prime minister, citing backing from 67 of the 120‑member parliament. The endorsement pushes Eisenkot ahead of incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu, who has fewer recommendations so far. Joint List’s three constituent factions agreed unanimously, saying their move reflects public pressure to keep Netanyahu out of power. While the recommendation adds to Eisenkot’s tally, it does not guarantee that the parties will join his future cabinet. Six parties have publicly said they will recommend Eisenkot to the president, widening the gap between the two rivals. The alliance also criticised the opposition bloc for not showing enough resolve to confront Netanyahu’s agenda or to defend Arab citizens against incitement. A delegation from the Joint List is set to deliver its recommendation to Herzog later in the day. President Herzog continued his consultations for a second day, meeting party leaders to identify the most suitable person to form a majority government. He reportedly rebuked members of far‑right Otzma Yehudit over alleged vote‑rigging, remarks about Arab voters and attacks on the attorney general. The coalition‑building drama intensified after United Torah Judaism announced it would not endorse any candidate, despite being part of Netanyahu’s bloc in the 2026 elections. Arab‑led United Arab List (Ra’am), which secured eight seats, also pledged support for Eisenkot, bringing his prospective backing to 56 members – still five short of the 61 needed for a majority. Herzog is expected to meet both Netanyahu and Eisenkot Thursday evening to decide who will be tasked with forming the next government.

Context

Israel’s parliamentary system requires a prime minister who can command a majority of the 120‑seat Knesset. Parties often shift alliances after elections, making endorsements a key step toward building a viable coalition.