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Eisenkot Given Six Weeks to Build Israeli Government, Open to Netanyahu Allies
Reported by Siddharth Deshmukh (Staff Writer) · The Hindu - International ·
Confirmed by a second source: Google News - Australia World
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsGadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party, has been given six weeks by President Isaac Herzog to form Israel’s next government.
What Happened
The president asked Eisenkot to start talks on Sunday, November 8, 2026, after the October 27 elections left no clear majority for any bloc.
Reaction
Eisenkot said he is willing to include Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party and the Religious Zionist Party of finance minister Bezalel Smotrich in a coalition that would sit under his leadership. He quoted members of Likud and the Religious Zionist Party as believing the country needs unity and supporting a government led by him.
Context
The task now requires negotiations with multiple potential partners, including Arab‑led parties that made historic gains and are seen as kingmakers in the 120‑seat Knesset. Their participation could be decisive for reaching a majority. Forming a stable coalition will be crucial for Israel’s domestic agenda and foreign policy amid regional tensions.
ExplainerWhy this matters
What Happened
Gadi Eisenkot was appointed by President Isaac Herzog on November 8, 2026 to form a new Israeli government after the October 27 election produced a hung parliament.
Why It Matters
Israel’s 120‑seat Knesset requires a coalition of parties to command a majority. Without a clear winner, smaller blocs, especially the Arab‑led parties that surged in this election, hold the balance of power. Eisenkot’s willingness to bring former rivals like Netanyahu and Smotrich into his cabinet signals a pragmatic shift aimed at securing that majority and ensuring policy continuity.
What Happens Next
Eisenkot must negotiate with Likud, the Religious Zionist Party and Arab parties to stitch together a stable coalition within six weeks. If talks fail, the president may grant the mandate to another leader or call fresh elections. The outcome will shape Israel’s domestic reforms and its stance on regional issues.
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