Israel’s state of emergency warning as elections leave opposition leader seeking allies

No clear election winner

October’s elections left Israel without a clear leader. Eisenkot received endorsements from 67 lawmakers, while Netanyahu had the backing of 46. Speaking at a ceremony on Sunday, Eisenkot warned that Israel was nearing a “point of no return.” He said democracy was vulnerable and that distrust of state institutions had grown.

Coalition choices carry hurdles

Eisenkot needs 61 seats for a parliamentary majority and must persuade rival parties to join him. His options include sharing power with Netanyahu, seeking support from Arab-led parties or reaching an agreement with ultra-Orthodox parties.

Each route faces resistance. Several members of Eisenkot’s bloc oppose relying on Arab-led parties, while ultra-Orthodox parties demand military exemptions for their community.

Arab-led parties hold influence

Both Arab-majority lists endorsed Eisenkot after making historic gains, winning 19 seats. Their support could make them pivotal in coalition talks. Eisenkot’s conditions for their participation include recognising Israel as a Jewish state and declaring Hamas a terrorist organisation.

Appeals for unity

Netanyahu called on Saturday night for a “national unity” government of Zionist parties to preserve the Jewish state. Whether he and Eisenkot could agree to share power remains unclear.

On Sunday, Eisenkot appealed to Netanyahu’s Likud party and the far-right party led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to join him. President Herzog said he hoped any government would foster unity and healing. If Eisenkot forms a coalition, Netanyahu would be unseated.