A Major Opportunity to Oust Netanyahu: Gadi Eizenkot Tasked with Forming a Government in Israel

An opportunity has emerged for opposition leader Gadi Eizenkot to bring an end to the long-standing rule of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has designated Eizenkot to form a new government. Political uncertainty has gripped the country following the October 27 elections, as no single party or bloc secured an outright majority.

The formal mandate to form a government is set to be handed to Eizenkot on Sunday (November 8) at the President’s residence in Jerusalem. Should he succeed, it could mark the end of Netanyahu’s prolonged political tenure.

Support for Eizenkot from 67 Lawmakers

According to the Office of the Israeli President, following consultations with representatives from various parties in the new parliament, 67 lawmakers have expressed their support for Gadi Eizenkot to form a government. In contrast, 46 lawmakers recommended Netanyahu, while seven did not support any candidate.

Eizenkot, a former Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, leads the 'Yashar' party. The coalition he led emerged as a significant force within the opposition camp during the October 27 elections.

A Complex Path to Forming a Government

Despite receiving the mandate from the President, Eizenkot faces a formidable challenge. The Israeli parliament, the Knesset, consists of 120 seats, and forming a government requires the support of at least 61 members.

In the elections, the coalition led by Netanyahu secured 53 seats, while the coalition led by Eizenkot won 48. Consequently, neither side possesses the majority required to form a government on its own.

In this situation, the support of Arab-backed parties could prove crucial for Eizenkot. However, there are internal disagreements within his own political camp regarding the prospect of forming an alliance with these parties. Netanyahu’s Warning

Netanyahu has expressed his objection to the potential inclusion of Arab parties in a coalition led by Eisenkot. He warned that a government dependent on Islamists could pose a threat to Israel’s internal stability.

Meanwhile, Eisenkot has proposed forming a "national emergency government." In a statement shared on social media, he indicated that he would make every effort to form a government once officially tasked with the responsibility.

28 Days to Form a Government

According to established procedures, Eisenkot will have 28 days to form a government once he is formally assigned the task. The President may grant an additional 14 days if necessary.

If he fails to secure the required majority within this timeframe, the opportunity to form a government may be offered to another candidate. Should successive attempts prove unsuccessful, it could lead to new elections.

Consequently, while Eisenkot’s appointment presents a significant political challenge for Netanyahu, a change in power in Israel is not yet a certainty. The political negotiations and coalition-building decisions that unfold over the coming weeks will determine who ultimately forms the country’s next government.