Israel political deadlock leaves Netanyahu’s future hanging in the balance

Israel’s general election has left Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future uncertain, as neither his governing bloc nor the opposition has secured enough seats to form a majority. The deadlock matters because coalition talks will determine who governs, but potential partnerships remain politically difficult.

Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition won 53 seats, while the opposition alliance led by Gadi Eisenkot won 48 in the 120-seat Knesset, where 61 are needed for a majority. The remaining 19 seats went to two Arab-led lists, which have indicated they might support or refrain from opposing an Eisenkot government, despite resistance within the opposition; official coalition talks are due to begin after results are certified on Wednesday.