The bloc led by Benjamin Netanyahu is ahead in the Israeli general elections, but after counting two-thirds of the votes, it has not yet reached a majority. The elections were held on October 7, 2023, and initial results indicate that Netanyahu is leading with 54 seats out of 120 in the Knesset (Israeli parliament).
High Voter Turnout and Reactions
This election witnessed the highest voter turnout in decades, and voters expressed their opinions about Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister. During this time, Netanyahu has shifted the country towards the political right and has initiated multiple wars in response to Hamas attacks.
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Initial results show that the rival bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot has secured 48 seats, while independent Arab parties have obtained 18 seats. Given these results, it seems that Eisenkot and his bloc will need to collaborate with Arab parties to form a coalition, a matter that his bloc members expressed reluctance about during the election campaign.
Challenges Ahead
Eisenkot, a former military official with little political experience, stated during his election campaign that he would not cooperate with Arab Israeli representatives. This position is similar to Netanyahu's belief that a government relying on Arab votes lacks legitimacy. However, Yair Golan, the head of Israel's main left-wing party and part of Eisenkot's bloc, has defended the necessity of forming a coalition government with Arab citizens of Israel.
Initial results indicate that if Eisenkot's bloc agrees to collaborate with Arab parties, it could achieve a majority. However, Eisenkot warned Netanyahu in his speech in Tel Aviv not to jeopardize Israel's security for political gains.
The elections were held under circumstances where Israel is facing global isolation due to wars in Iran and Gaza, as well as increased construction and violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Despite agreeing with many of Netanyahu's views on security, Eisenkot seeks to create a more inclusive environment within Israel and improve the country's international standing.
After nearly 78 percent voter participation, the highest since 1999, Eisenkot stated that holding new elections would be a mistake and that he would act quickly to form a government. He said, "People voted for change, and a worthy leader must respect the people's vote of no confidence and withdraw from political life."
Complete election results are expected to be announced by Thursday evening or Friday morning.
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