By The Haitian Tribune Staff
JERUSALEM — Israeli President Isaac Herzog has asked opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot to try to form the country’s next government, dealing a setback to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after an inconclusive election.
Neither Eisenkot’s bloc nor Netanyahu’s allies secured a parliamentary majority in the Oct. 27 vote. Herzog’s decision followed consultations with party representatives, most of whom recommended that Eisenkot receive the first opportunity to build a governing coalition.
Netanyahu called for a national unity government shortly before the announcement. He also warned against forming a government with parties he described as supportive of terrorism, an apparent reference to Arab-led parties.
Eisenkot, a former military chief, campaigned as the leading challenger to Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister. His party has said it would consider coalition partners who accept its principles, including recognizing Hamas as a terrorist organization.
The president’s decision does not guarantee Eisenkot will succeed. He must negotiate agreements with other parties and assemble enough support to govern. The result of those talks could determine whether Israel enters a new political chapter or faces further uncertainty.
By the Haitian Tribune NewsRoom
