Israel's Coalition Puzzle: Eisenkot Poised for Mandate

Israeli President Isaac Herzog concluded consultations Thursday and will decide Sunday who will be tasked with forming a new government, with Gadi Eisenkot of the Yashar party recommended by 67 parliamentarians versus 46 for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Eisenkot faces a complex challenge to secure a 61-seat Knesset majority due to cross-vetoes and rivalries. Analyst Sergio Della Pergola outlined five possible scenarios, including a Netanyahu coalition with the Arab Ra'am party, a minority government backed by Arab parties, or national unity governments under either leader. A key test comes November 10 when the new Knesset elects its speaker, where ultra-Orthodox parties may withhold support from Likud's Amir Ohana. If Eisenkot succeeds, the Knesset could pursue initiatives like an October 7 inquiry commission or judicial reform changes before any government is formed.