Israel piles pressure on Arab parties as Netanyahu seeks government
Summary
Netanyahu’s bloc has intensified pressure on Israeli Arab leaders over unproven foreign funding allegations as Israel moves toward final election results. The accusations have deepened uncertainty over coalition talks, with neither major bloc close to the 61 seats needed to form a government.
Key Points
- Netanyahu’s camp accused Arab parties of receiving foreign funding and urged action against their leaders, despite little evidence being presented.
- President Isaac Herzog called for an investigation but warned against stigmatizing the wider Arab Israeli community.
- With 93 percent of votes counted, Netanyahu’s bloc held 53 seats and the opposition led by Gadi Eisenkot had 48, leaving both short of a majority.
- Qatar denied any interference, while election and police authorities said they would investigate the complaints.
