Israel’s president is set to meet with the country’s top political rivals amid a tight deadline to form a government after neither Benjamin Netanyahu nor his challenger, former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, secured enough support to claim a majority following a closely watched election. With less than a week remaining before a critical decision, the president must now determine which leader will attempt to build a governing coalition first. Observers describe the vote as one of the most significant in Israel’s recent history, reflecting deep political divisions. The outcome now hinges on fragile negotiations as the country edges closer to a potential new election.
President calls on all parties to help avoid new election after Netanyahu and Eisenkot blocs fell short of majorityIsrael’s president, Isaac Herzog, was due to meet Benjamin Netanyahu and his chief political rival, Gadi Eisenkot, on Thursday with less than a week left before he decides which of the two men should first try to form a government.A bitterly contested election last month, seen by many observers as one of the most consequential for Israel in many decades, ended with neither Netanyahu nor Eisenkot, a former military general and chief of staff, securing a clear pathway to power. Continue reading...
