Netanyahu leads election but faces coalition deadlock — SkimNews
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- Netanyahu declared victory in tone after exit polls showed his Likud party ahead, vowing to form a 'strong, right-wing, nationalist government' and rejecting any coalition with Arab parties as 'treasonous'.
- Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar party trailed Likud with 16.4% of votes counted, but he left open the possibility of partnering with Arab-led parties if they recognize Israel as a Jewish state and Hamas as a terrorist group.
- Arab-led parties achieved a historic election showing, with the United Arab List celebrating a central role, though their ability to influence government depends on reluctant coalition talks with Jewish-led opposition blocs.
- Voter turnout reached nearly 78%, the highest since 1999, driven by anger over war fatigue, military draft exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews, and discontent with Netanyahu’s far-right alliances.
- Itamar Ben-Gvir's far-right party lost support, signaling voter backlash against his inflammatory rhetoric, including dehumanizing statements about Palestinians in Gaza.
- Isaac Herzog as president will decide who to task with forming a government, not necessarily the leader of the largest party, opening the door to complex negotiations or potential deadlock.
Why it matters: Netanyahu remains best positioned to lead coalition talks, but with Likud’s vote share down from 2022 and Arab parties holding pivotal seats, forming a stable majority is uncertain. If no coalition emerges, Israel could face its sixth election in seven years, draining political will and public trust.
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