Netanyahu and Eisenkot compete to form Israel's next government

Israel's October 27 election resulted in a hung parliament, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc winning only 53 seats and rival Gadi Eisenkot's opposition securing 48, leaving neither able to form a government independently. President Isaac Herzog has begun consultations to decide who will get the mandate to build a coalition. Eisenkot has gained momentum, with expected recommendations from 56 lawmakers, including support from Arab-led parties, while Netanyahu's options are constrained by his refusal to rely on Arab parties. The 19 seats held by Arab-led parties, particularly the Joint List's 11, are now pivotal in determining the next prime minister. Herzog, who received certified results on November 4, urged political leaders to compromise to avoid another election, warning that "not every commitment and promise can be fulfilled." The chosen candidate will have 28 days to form a government, with a possible 14-day extension.