Israel's Political Deadlock Leaves Netanyahu's Future Uncertain

Israel's political deadlock deepened Tuesday as neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing bloc nor the opposition secured a parliamentary majority in the October 27 election, leaving the country's next government uncertain. With results due for certification Wednesday, both sides remain far from the 61 seats needed in the 120-seat Knesset. Netanyahu's coalition won 53 seats, while the opposition alliance led by Gadi Eisenkot took 48, with the remaining 19 seats going to Arab-led parties. Netanyahu has disputed the results, alleging irregularities in Arab voting, though police have dismissed these claims. Opposition leaders said Tuesday they are preparing to replace Netanyahu's government, but their path to a majority depends on support from either Arab parties or ultra-Orthodox factions. President Isaac Herzog will begin consultations after certification to select a candidate to form a government, with Eisenkot potentially getting 28 days to build a coalition. Netanyahu argues his first-place finish gives him a mandate, but analysts say he lacks the numbers without Arab party support. The new Knesset is due to be sworn in November 10, with US midterm elections and potential conflict with Iran looming as possible disruptors.