Reuters reports that post-election polls from Israel's parliamentary election indicate a political deadlock, with neither of the main blocs securing the necessary majority to form a government. This result casts uncertainty on the political future of Benjamin Netanyahu and the formation of a new government.
According to exit polls published by Israeli television networks, the rival political blocs are very close in terms of seats, and neither has managed to reach the 61 seats required for a majority in the 120-seat parliament (the Knesset).
Incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the formation of a right-wing national government. However, his main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, argues that voters have opposed Netanyahu's continued premiership and has called for him to step down from politics.
If the poll predictions are accurate, the nationalist and religious coalition led by Netanyahu will fall short of the required threshold to form a government. This situation could prolong negotiations for a coalition government, allowing Netanyahu to remain in power as a caretaker prime minister until then.
Meanwhile, Arab parties, which are outside the main right and left blocs, could play a decisive role in the balance of power. However, YASHAR party leader Eisenkot has almost entirely ruled out forming a government with the support of these parties, which complicates his path to power.
Israel's Central Elections Committee announced that voter turnout for this election reached 77.7%, the highest figure in over two decades. Final election results are expected to be announced on Thursday or Friday.
Source: Reuters
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