Coalition negotiations expected to be difficult; President: 'Avoid re-election' - Israeli general election

[Jerusalem Current Affairs] Vote counting for Israel's general election (120 seats in parliament) to be voted on on the 27th continued on the 29th. Both the ruling party, led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, and the opposition, led by former military chief of staff Eisenkot, are expected to fall short of a majority. Coalition negotiations are expected to be difficult, and if they reach an impasse, fresh elections could be considered. President Herzog appealed on the 28th, ``We must do everything in our power to avoid re-election.''

Netanyahu maintains power as ``interim prime minister,'' political deadlock working in his favor - Israel

According to Israeli media, with 91% of votes counted, Netanyahu's ruling Likud party is expected to take the lead with 26 seats, followed by Eisenkot's opposition party Yashar with 21 seats. The ruling party bloc is expected to win 53 seats, the opposition bloc 48 seats, and the two Arab parties that will not join either party are expected to win 19 seats. According to reports, the overall results are expected to be known by the 30th.

After the voting results are finalized, the president will instruct the elected candidates who are most likely to form a coalition government to form a cabinet. If Mr. Netanyahu receives a request to form a government, he will need to break through the opposition camp that advocates ``anti-Netanyahu,'' but it is unclear whether he will receive their cooperation.