Netanyahu's Likud leads, but Israeli elections end in a…

Netanyahu's Likud leads, but Israeli elections end in a stalemate

29.10.2026 01:25 HotInfo

In Israel's parliamentary elections, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud won the most seats, but the final winner remains unclear. After counting approximately 32.5 to 55 percent of the votes, the right-wing bloc had, according to preliminary results, 56 to 59 seats. To secure a majority in the 120-member parliament, at least 61 seats are needed. aktuality.sk ↗

The opposition bloc, led by former Israeli army chief Gadi Eisenkot, won, according to preliminary data, 47 to 49 seats. Exit polls had suggested that the opposition could have a combined majority, especially once the Arab parties were included. However, without their support, neither of the main blocs may be able to form a government. idnes.cz ↗

The elections were held amid record turnout, the highest in recent decades. The result thus represents a significant political contest between Netanyahu's right-wing camp and the opposition, but it did not produce a clear mandate to form a government. aktuality.sk ↗

After the elections, Netanyahu called for the formation of a strong right-wing government. He ruled out cooperation with the Arab parties. Eisenkot, on the other hand, described the preliminary results as an expression of no confidence in Netanyahu and his government.

Further developments will depend on the completion of the vote count and subsequent coalition negotiations. If no bloc secures the necessary majority, Israel could face lengthy post-election negotiations and further political uncertainty. ORF ↗