Breaking

Israel’s election results indicate the Netanyahu-led bloc is holding its lead as double envelope ballots are being counted overnight, according to the Jerusalem Post. President Herzog has stated that Israel “must do everything possible to avoid another round of elections,” signalling concerns about potential political deadlock.

The election saw record-high Arab voter turnout, with opposition figures including Golan calling on the opposition bloc to form a government with Ra’am and the Joint List. This represents a significant political development as coalition negotiations begin to take shape following the voting.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Netanyahu has vowed to stick with his far-right coalition partners, reportedly telling Ben Gvir and Smotrich “We are together and we are staying together,” according to Times of Israel reporting. This suggests the right-wing bloc intends to maintain its current alignment despite broader political pressures.

Opposition figures are beginning coalition talks, with Eisenkot reportedly seeking a path to “bring change” and Golan planning to meet fellow opposition leaders Wednesday, though reports indicate Liberman may be ghosting these discussions.

Sources: Jerusalem Post, Times of Israel, Ynet

Update 09:02: Israel faces political deadlock after inconclusive elections with neither Netanyahu nor Eisenkot securing a parliamentary majority, triggering discussions of three possible outcomes: opposition coalition, unity government, or new elections.