Israeli president instructs opposition leader to form cabinet; coalition talks to unite anti-Netanyahu camp

Israeli President Herzog announced on the 7th that he will direct former military chief of staff Eisenkot, leader of the centrist opposition party Yashar, to form a new government. The formal meeting is scheduled to take place on the 8th, and coalition negotiations with each party will begin in earnest. The focus will be on whether Mr. Eisenkot can rally the anti-Prime Minister Netanyahu camp and achieve a change of government.

In the general election held on October 27th (120 seats), Netanyahu's ruling Likud party was the largest party, winning 53 seats. Of these, the ultra-Orthodox Judaism Union (seven seats) declined to recommend Netanyahu due to policy disagreements, leaving only 46 people supporting him.

Yashar became the second party, and the Jewish opposition bloc had a sluggish 48 seats. However, the two Arab parties that won 19 seats also announced their opposition to Mr. Netanyahu, and Mr. Eisenkot received 67 nominations.

The presidential office said in a statement that Herzog "held in-depth discussions with various figures in the political world, including Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Eisenkot." Mr. Eisenkot must complete the formation of his government within 28 days. The deadline can be extended by up to 14 days at the president's discretion.