Government Formation Crisis in Israel: Fierce Struggle Between Netanyahu and Eisenkot Amid Stalled Negotiations

A Battle of Wills Between Netanyahu and Eisenkot

The Israeli political arena is witnessing an open confrontation between outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his rival Gadi Eisenkot, who has held a mandate for a week from President Isaac Herzog to form a governing coalition, at a time when consultations to secure a majority remain deadlocked.

A Call for Unity and Warning of the Iranian Threat

On Saturday evening, November 14, Benjamin Netanyahu issued an appeal urging Eisenkot to abandon the idea of allying with Arab parties and to join a national unity government to address security challenges. Netanyahu justified his call by highlighting the Iranian threat, asserting that Tehran would not hesitate to use nuclear weapons, and calling for talks without preconditions or political boycotts to ensure Israel's security and future.

A Firm Rebuff and Accusations of Maneuvering and Division

In response, the leader of the 'Yashar' party, Gadi Eisenkot, categorically rejected the appeal, describing it as merely a smokescreen and a recurring political ploy. The former chief of staff clarified that a meeting between the negotiating teams of his party and Likud was already scheduled for Sunday, November 15, accusing Netanyahu of ostensibly calling for negotiations while continuing to fuel divisions and stir tensions within society.

The Knesset Speakership Test and Efforts to Secure a Majority

Eisenkot put right-wing lawmakers to a practical test, stating that the true measure of their seriousness in building a national partnership will come during the session to elect the Knesset Speaker scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, by backing the 'Yashar' candidate. Amid these political maneuvers, the prime minister-designate continues his contacts and efforts to win the support of ultra-Orthodox Haredi parties to secure the necessary quorum and form the next government.