Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces uncertainty over his political future following the election.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking options to remain in power after an election produced no clear parliamentary majority, leaving the country facing potentially weeks of negotiations to form a government.
The election, held on Tuesday, recorded the highest voter turnout in decades and was widely viewed as a test of public confidence in Netanyahu, who has served as prime minister for more than 19 years across different periods.
With almost all votes counted, Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc appeared to have a slight lead over the opposition camp led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot. However, neither side had secured enough seats to form a government independently.
The result could lead to prolonged coalition negotiations. Until a new government is formed, Netanyahu is expected to remain caretaker prime minister.
Arab parties, which made significant gains in the election, could influence the outcome if opposition parties agree to work with them.
Netanyahu, who repeatedly criticised Arab parties during his campaign, has accused them of electoral wrongdoing and called for an investigation into allegations of foreign funding. The allegations have not been proven.
President Isaac Herzog, who is responsible for selecting a candidate to form the next government, has urged political leaders to avoid another election and raised the possibility of a national unity government.
During the final hours of voting, Netanyahu urged his supporters to turn out for his Likud party, warning that the outcome could be determined by the left and Arab parties.
His campaign focused on security and military operations against Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon and Iran, while also highlighting support from United States President Donald Trump.
However, the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, raised questions about the government’s handling of national security. Eisenkot drew on public anger over the security failures preceding the attack during his campaign.
Netanyahu also faces a long-running corruption trial and an International Criminal Court arrest warrant over alleged war crimes in Gaza.
The election comes amid continuing regional tensions and uncertainty over the possibility of renewed conflict with Iran.
Netanyahu’s supporters credit him with strengthening Israel’s military position and confronting Iran, while critics argue that his policies have prolonged regional conflicts and damaged Israel’s international standing.
Eisenkot has previously said Netanyahu should no longer remain in office, setting the stage for difficult negotiations over the country’s political future.
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