Change in Israel: Eisenkot set to form next government

Eisenkot secured recommendations from 67 lawmakers during parliamentary consultations. In contrast, Netanyahu received support from only 46 members. Seven lawmakers declined to endorse either candidate for the top post.

Herzog announced the move on Saturday following talks with major political leaders. The President’s Residence will host the formal handover ceremony on Sunday at 5 p.m. local time.

Eisenkot now has 28 days to build a working governing coalition. Herzog can grant a 14-day extension if negotiations require extra time to complete.

The recommendations reflect a shifting political balance inside the 120-member Knesset. A candidate requires the support of at least 61 seats to secure a majority.

Eisenkot drew backing from 48 Change Bloc members and 19 Arab party lawmakers. Netanyahu secured endorsement strictly from his traditional right-wing and religious allies.

However, these 67 recommendations do not guarantee Eisenkot a stable governing majority. Deep ideological differences among his supporting factions could severely complicate upcoming coalition talks.

Arab-led factions plan to offer external support rather than join the cabinet directly. Their involvement remains politically sensitive for several right-leaning parties inside Eisenkot’s broad bloc.

Eisenkot previously served as chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces. He entered politics in 2022 and subsequently led his Yashar party to 21 seats.

He emerged as Netanyahu’s main challenger by uniting diverse political groups. These factions from the center-left and right mostly share strong opposition to the incumbent prime minister.

Eisenkot briefly served in Netanyahu’s war cabinet after the October 2023 attack. He later resigned, sharply criticizing the administration’s military strategy and overall war leadership.

Despite this major setback, Netanyahu refuses to concede the premiership to his rival. He continues advocating for a national unity government while rejecting Arab-backed coalitions.

Negotiations face severe hurdles over military conscription, national security, and Gaza strategy. Disagreements over ultra-Orthodox draft exemptions present an immediate obstacle for all potential partners.

Eisenkot could attempt a minority government or seek agreements with ultra-Orthodox parties. Alternatively, he might try building a broader unity coalition across traditional party lines.

If Eisenkot fails, Herzog could transfer the mandate to another candidate. Continued failure by all parties will eventually force Israel into fresh parliamentary elections.