Netanyahu Loses Parliamentary Majority as Israeli Opposition Leader Gets Chance to Form Government

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has tasked opposition leader and former military chief Gadi Eisenkot with forming the country's next government after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ruling coalition failed to secure a parliamentary majority in the October 27 elections.

Eisenkot has been given 28 days to negotiate a coalition agreement, with the possibility of an additional two-week extension. His efforts will determine whether Netanyahu's long political dominance comes to an end or whether Israel eventually returns to another election.

The election produced a fragmented parliament, with neither Netanyahu's political bloc nor Eisenkot's opposition alliance securing the 61 seats required to form a government independently.

Arab-led political parties have emerged as influential players in the negotiations, although cooperation with them remains politically controversial among several Israeli opposition factions.

The government formation process is taking place amid continuing tensions over Gaza, Lebanon and Iran, as well as disagreements over military conscription, judicial reforms and the country's security policies.

Netanyahu remains caretaker prime minister until a new government is successfully formed.