Israel’s newly elected parliament, the Knesset, was sworn in on Tuesday amid a political stalemate that has left the country without a functioning government. Following the October 27 election, which deprived caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of his parliamentary majority, former military chief Gadi Eisenkot has been tasked by President Isaac Herzog with attempting to form a new coalition.
Addressing the legislature, President Herzog urged lawmakers to prioritise compromise and avoid the prospect of another round of elections. While Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud alliance holds 53 of the 120 parliamentary seats, Eisenkot’s centre-right Yashar party and its partners hold 48. Both leaders currently lack a clear path to the 61-seat majority required to govern, leading to a precarious legislative environment.
Eisenkot has publicly vowed to reverse many of the policies established during Netanyahu's long tenure. As part of this legislative agenda, his bloc has introduced a series of bills targeting the caretaker Prime Minister’s policies. Although Eisenkot’s path to power is described as "extraordinarily complex," his supporters hold the potential to capitalise on their opposition to Netanyahu. This includes a possible alliance with Arab-led parties, which hold 19 seats and share a mutual opposition to the caretaker government.
The newly convened parliament possesses the authority to enact legislation even in the absence of a formal government. One significant proposal under consideration is the establishment of a government-led official inquiry into the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks—a measure backed by Arab parties but largely opposed by Netanyahu. Additionally, there is a possibility that the Knesset could move to replace the current speaker, who is a member of the Likud party.
Key facts
- Gadi Eisenkot has until December 6 to form a government, with an option to request an extension until December 20.
- Netanyahu’s Likud-led alliance controls 53 seats, while Eisenkot’s bloc holds 48 seats in the 120-member parliament.
- Arab-led parties, which are currently aligned with Eisenkot’s opposition to Netanyahu, control 19 seats.
- Benjamin Netanyahu remains the caretaker Prime Minister while coalition negotiations continue.
- The swearing-in ceremony included Elisha Madan, a military reservist and Gaza war veteran.
Why it matters
The current legislative impasse carries the risk of a very short parliamentary term. If both Eisenkot and Netanyahu fail to secure a governing coalition, the country could face the prospect of another round of general elections, a scenario President Herzog has explicitly warned against.
Background
Netanyahu has challenged the recent election results by alleging voter fraud by the Arab population, though election officials have stated they have found no evidence of misconduct capable of influencing the final outcome.
Source: Hindustan Times, Economic Times
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