📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / U.S. Department of State
International
Israeli President appoints Eisenkot, Netanyahu rival, to form new government
✍️ India Today
🗓 08 Nov 2026, 05:25 AM
👁 14
President Isaac Herzog has tasked Eisenkot, a political rival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with the task of assembling a new coalition government in Israel.
President Isaac Herzog of Israel announced that he has asked Eisenkot, a senior figure who has openly challenged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to form a governing coalition. The move comes after recent elections left the Knesset without a clear majority, prompting the president to seek a leader capable of bridging the political divide.
Eisenkot, known for his criticism of Netanyahu's policies, is expected to negotiate with parties across the spectrum to secure the required 61 seats. Analysts say his appointment signals a possible shift away from Netanyahu's long‑standing dominance in Israeli politics.
The president’s decision is constitutional; under Israeli law, the head of state invites a Knesset member who appears most likely to command a majority to attempt government formation. Eisenkot has until a set deadline to present a viable coalition plan.
If successful, Eisenkot would become prime minister, marking a significant change in leadership. Failure would lead the president to consider other candidates, potentially extending the period of political uncertainty.
The international community is watching closely, as Israel’s stability has regional implications. Diplomatic sources note that a new government could affect ongoing peace initiatives and security arrangements in the Middle East.
Eisenkot, known for his criticism of Netanyahu's policies, is expected to negotiate with parties across the spectrum to secure the required 61 seats. Analysts say his appointment signals a possible shift away from Netanyahu's long‑standing dominance in Israeli politics.
The president’s decision is constitutional; under Israeli law, the head of state invites a Knesset member who appears most likely to command a majority to attempt government formation. Eisenkot has until a set deadline to present a viable coalition plan.
If successful, Eisenkot would become prime minister, marking a significant change in leadership. Failure would lead the president to consider other candidates, potentially extending the period of political uncertainty.
The international community is watching closely, as Israel’s stability has regional implications. Diplomatic sources note that a new government could affect ongoing peace initiatives and security arrangements in the Middle East.