Israel final election results show neither Netanyahu nor rival can immediately form government
Reported by NBC News ·
Neither bloc reaches a majority
The bloc supporting Netanyahu’s main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, secured 48 seats. With neither side reaching the 61-seat threshold, the tight election has not produced an immediate path to a government for either bloc.
Certification remains ahead
The vote count is complete, but the results have not yet been certified. They are due to be submitted to the country’s president next Wednesday.
Arab parties make historic gains
Parties led by Israel’s Arab minority won a combined 19 seats, marking historic gains. Palestinians with Israeli citizenship turned out to vote in record numbers Tuesday. Many hoped to oust Netanyahu and far-right members of his coalition, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.
Key points
- Netanyahu’s bloc won 53 seats, while the bloc backing Gadi Eisenkot won 48.
- Neither bloc secured the 61 seats required to form a government.
- Arab-led parties won a combined 19 seats in historic gains.
- The completed count still needs certification and submission to the president next Wednesday.