With 100% of the votes counted in the Israeli election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc has won 53 seats, but has fallen short of the 61 seats needed for a majority in the Knesset (parliament). This result once again leaves Israel in a political stalemate.
According to Israeli media reports, after all votes were counted, the pro-Netanyahu bloc of right-wing and religious parties secured 53 seats, while opposition parties won 48. Arab parties took 19 seats in the 120-member parliament, not aligning with either major bloc, and could play a kingmaker role in forming the next government.
Netanyahu's Likud party emerged as the largest single party with 27 seats. However, with neither major bloc securing the 61-seat majority, the balance of power remains uncertain, setting the stage for a new round of complex coalition negotiations.
Among the other parties, Yashar won 21 seats, B'Yachad secured 12, and the Joint List took 11. The Democrats and Ra'am won eight seats each, while United Torah Judaism (UTJ), Yisrael Beytenu, and Otzma each secured seven seats. The Religious Zionists and Shas each won six seats.
This was Israel's fifth election in less than four years, highlighting the deep political divisions within the country's society. Netanyahu's political future, as he also faces corruption charges, will depend on his ability to attract new allies, possibly from smaller parties or even by courting support from Arab parties.
If neither side can form a stable coalition, Israel could face the prospect of a sixth election. This political deadlock could have significant implications for Israel's domestic and foreign policies, including the peace process with the Palestinians and regional relations.
Source: Israeli Media
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