Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot officially received the mandate to form Israel’s next government from President Isaac Herzog on Sunday, November 8, becoming the first candidate tasked with forming a government in the newly elected 26th Knesset.
The formal handover took place during a ceremony at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, where Herzog presented Eisenkot with the letter authorising him to begin the government formation process.
Addressing the ceremony, Eisenkot called for a national emergency government, describing Israel as being in a state of urgency and deep political turmoil. He urged political parties to overcome their differences and work together to address the challenges facing the country.
In a statement posted on X after receiving the mandate, Eisenkot said Israel needed new leadership that would promote unity and pave the way for a new era of solidarity and friendship.
“The task is difficult and there is much work ahead, but I believe success is within reach,” he wrote, adding that he would do everything possible to ensure Israel’s success.
Eisenkot said he could not imagine forming a government without the support of members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party. He warned that Israel was facing a situation unseen since its establishment and could not afford another round of elections.
He also said the objectives of the war had not been achieved and highlighted the security challenges involving Gaza and Lebanon. He called for a stable government capable of addressing the country’s challenges over the long term.
Joint List highlights representation
Joint List leader Yousuf Jabareen said the incoming Knesset would have 11 members with doctoral degrees, including six from his alliance.
In a post on X, Jabareen described the Joint List as educated, diverse and talented, and pledged to fight racism and supremacy. He called for a future based on dignity, equality and peace for all citizens, both Arabs and Jews.
Election leaves parliament divided
The October 27 election left Israel without a clear parliamentary majority. Eisenkot’s four-party alliance secured 48 seats in the 120-member Knesset, while Netanyahu’s right-wing and religious bloc won 53. Arab-led parties, representing Palestinian citizens of Israel, secured a record 19 seats.
During consultations with political factions, 67 lawmakers recommended Eisenkot for the mandate, compared with 46 who backed Netanyahu. Another seven lawmakers chose not to endorse either candidate.
Eisenkot has ruled out forming a government with the Arab-led parties. Support from the ultra-Orthodox parties United Torah Judaism and Shas could help him reach the 61 seats required for a parliamentary majority. Alternatively, he could form a minority government with sufficient backing in a confidence vote.
28 days to form government
Under Israel’s Basic Law, Eisenkot has 28 days to form a government after receiving the mandate. Herzog can grant an extension of up to 14 additional days if necessary.
If Eisenkot fails, the President may assign the task to another Knesset member. If subsequent attempts are unsuccessful, the Knesset could be dissolved and fresh elections will be held. Until a new government takes office, the outgoing administration remains in a caretaker capacity.
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Source: The Siasat Daily
