Former Israeli Army Chief Gadi Eisenkot Given Time to Form Government
Summary
Gadi Eisenkot has 28 days to try to form a government in Israel, where no bloc holds a clear majority. He is weighing alliances with Arab parties, ultra-Orthodox parties, or a national unity deal to block Benjamin Netanyahu from returning to power.
Key Points
- President Isaac Herzog has ordered former Israeli army chief Gadi Eisenkot to form a government within 28 days, with a possible 14-day extension.
- Eisenkot is exploring support from Arab Israeli parties, ultra-Orthodox parties, or a national unity arrangement because no bloc has a clear majority in the 120-seat parliament.
- His proposed 'national emergency' government aims to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but the coalition options appear politically fragile.
- Israel's political deadlock has previously triggered repeated elections, and Herzog has signaled support for a unity government to reduce polarization.
