Israeli President Isaac Herzog has asked political parties to work towards forming a government and avoid another election after an inconclusive vote left rival blocs short of a parliamentary majority on Wednesday. Track live updates
So I expect everyone who comes here to come here with an open mind,” Herzog said during a gathering at his residence, Al Jazeera reported. “We need to do everything, certainly after yesterday, so as not to hold another election.
After the official results are announced, Herzog will consult party representatives before asking the lawmaker he believes has the best chance of forming a government to try to build a coalition. The count is not yet complete. Special double-envelope ballots, including votes cast by soldiers and other eligible voters outside their assigned polling stations, are still to be counted. If the attempt fails, another lawmaker may be given a chance. If no candidate can secure sufficient support, Israel could face another election. If the parties fail to agree on a coalition, Netanyahu would remain caretaker prime minister while negotiations continue and until a new government takes office or another election is held.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ’s bloc has secured 53 seats, while the opposition alliance led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot has won 48. Arab-led parties hold 19 seats, according to the latest figures reported by Israel’s Ynet news. Neither of the two main blocs has the 61 seats required for a majority in the 120-member Knesset. Over 480,000 such ballots are expected, and the remaining votes could change the distribution of seats. The nominee will initially have 28 days to form a government, with a possible 14-day extension.
The count could continue until Friday, according to Israel’s Central Elections Committee.
