Breaking
President Isaac Herzog is conducting consultations with Knesset members to determine which politician has the strongest chance of assembling a governing coalition, part of the formal process for appointing Israel’s next prime minister.
Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot is expected to secure the presidential mandate to form a government, according to reporting from the Jerusalem Post. The consultations represent a critical juncture in coalition negotiations following recent elections.
Meanwhile, Shas party leader Aryeh Deri has cast doubt on Eisenkot’s viability as coalition leader, suggesting that ultra-Orthodox parties may have concerns about his ability to deliver on their demands. Deri remarked that Eisenkot is “not the homeowner” in coalition negotiations, implying other political actors like Avigdor Lieberman and Naftali Bennett hold significant influence over the process.
The Ra’am faction has simultaneously pressed for the new Knesset chairman to be elected during the inaugural session, signalling efforts by smaller parties to secure procedural advantages early in the new government formation.
Sources: Walla, Jerusalem Post, Ynet
