The Israeli Parliament was sworn in on Tuesday while Gadi Eisenkot, a former general, is trying to form a new government. These developments came after the general elections on October 27, which resulted in a reduction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's parliamentary majority.
Challenges Facing Eisenkot
Eisenkot and his allies are also facing a lack of majority and have yet to reach an agreement with the necessary parties to form a government. Given this deadlock, there is a risk that the new parliamentary term may be very short, and if Eisenkot and Netanyahu fail to form a coalition, new elections may be held.
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During the swearing-in ceremony, President Isaac Herzog told lawmakers: "You must do everything in your power to prevent new elections." He urged representatives to seek agreements and cooperation, even with political rivals, and emphasized the importance of working together.
Possibility of Investigation into October 7 Attacks
Netanyahu continues to serve as interim Prime Minister until a new candidate successfully forms a coalition. Netanyahu's Likud party, which formed a coalition with right-wing and ultra-Orthodox parties, has lost its majority despite predictions in the elections and currently holds 53 seats out of 120 in the Knesset.
Eisenkot's Yashar party and its allied parties only have 48 seats. However, they may look to the Arab parties, which hold 19 seats, for support. These parties are strongly opposed to Netanyahu and align with Eisenkot, potentially helping him fulfill some of his electoral promises.
Eisenkot currently has until December 6 to form a government but can request a two-week extension until December 20. He has acknowledged the complexities of his path to power.
If Eisenkot fails to form a government, Herzog is likely to choose Netanyahu to attempt to form the next coalition. This comes as Netanyahu has expressed doubts about the election results and claimed voter fraud. Election officials have stated they are investigating potential errors, but have found no evidence of fraud that would affect the election outcome.
Among the swearers on Tuesday was Elisha Madaan, a reserve soldier who lost both of his legs in the Gaza war, who was cheered by representatives as he stood on his prosthetic legs.
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