Eisenkot wins 67 Knesset recommendations to Netanyahu's 46, but coalition path unclear
Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot received backing from 67 lawmakers in the 120-seat Knesset, compared to 46 for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in presidential consultations. President Isaac Herzog is expected to announce his decision on Sunday, November 8. Eisenkot's support includes Arab-led parties like the Joint List and Ra'am, alongside right-wing, centrist, and left-wing factions, but the coalition remains divided on key issues. Netanyahu's Likud is the largest party with 27 seats, while his religious-nationalist bloc holds 53, short of a majority. The recommendations do not guarantee a government, as the Joint List may support from outside rather than join formally. If Eisenkot fails to form a coalition within 28 days, Netanyahu could remain as caretaker prime minister, or Israel could face another election.