Herzog Gives Eisenkot First Chance to Form Israeli Government

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has chosen opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot to receive the first opportunity to form a government, after lawmakers representing 67 seats recommended him, compared with 46 for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The decision gives Eisenkot a mandate to negotiate, but does not transfer power or guarantee he can assemble a government that wins parliamentary confidence.

Herzog announced his decision on Saturday, November 7, after consulting representatives of parties elected to the 120-seat Knesset. Eisenkot was scheduled to receive the mandate at a ceremony at the president’s residence on Sunday, November 8, at 5 p.m. local time. Once formally appointed, he will have 28 days to form a government, with a possible extension of up to 14 days.

The recommendations reflect lawmakers’ preferences during the presidential consultations, not a governing majority. Eisenkot’s four-party bloc holds 48 seats, while Netanyahu’s outgoing bloc has 53. A government needs the support of at least 61 lawmakers. Netanyahu remains prime minister while negotiations continue and until a new government wins Knesset confidence.

Eisenkot’s 67 recommendations included lawmakers from...