Jerusalem, October 30, 2026: Israel’s election results have left neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc nor the main opposition with enough seats to form a majority government on their own, putting Arab parties in a potentially decisive position during coalition negotiations.
Netanyahu Bloc Falls Short of Majority
With all votes counted, Netanyahu’s bloc secured 53 seats in the 120-member Knesset, short of the 61 needed for a governing majority.
The opposition bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot won 48 seats, while Arab parties together secured 19 seats, making their support potentially crucial to determining the next government.
Arab Parties Could Become Kingmakers
The fragmented result means Arab parties could play a central role in deciding whether an alternative coalition can be formed.
Their position could involve direct coalition participation, outside support for a minority government, or negotiations over specific policy commitments.
Coalition Talks Expected to Be Difficult
The result has opened a complex period of negotiations, with both major political camps exploring possible alliances.
Political differences between Zionist parties and Arab-led factions remain significant, however, which could make any agreement difficult to finalise.
Netanyahu Remains Largest Political Force
Netanyahu’s Likud emerged as the largest individual party, but the broader right-wing bloc does not have enough seats to govern independently.
This leaves Netanyahu needing additional support or defections from outside his existing alliance if he is to remain prime minister.
Opposition Also Faces Coalition Challenge
Eisenkot’s camp also lacks the numbers required to form a government without outside backing.
Any path to an opposition-led administration would therefore likely depend heavily on support from Arab lawmakers or other parties willing to cross traditional political blocs.
Focus Now Shifts to Government Formation
Israel’s president is expected to consult party representatives before assigning a lawmaker the task of forming a government.
With no clear majority emerging from the election, coalition negotiations could determine whether Israel gets a stable new government or faces prolonged political uncertainty.
Source: AFP, Times of Israel, Al Jazeera, Times of India
Supreme News Network
