Israel’s main opposition bloc has won 48 seats in the Knesset, while Arab-led parties secured 19 seats, according to final results released early Friday.
The outcome leaves Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc unable to form a government on its own.
A coalition needs at least 61 seats to command a majority in the 120-seat parliament. The results set the stage for negotiations among parties with different political and ideological positions.
Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, remains in office while parties explore possible alliances.
The opposition, led by centrist politician Gadi Eisenkot, could potentially secure a majority by working with the Arab-led parties.
However, such an arrangement could prove politically difficult, as some opposition parties had ruled out partnering with them during the campaign.
Another possibility is a unity government involving Netanyahu’s bloc and some opposition parties, though negotiations could prove difficult, the Associated Press reported.
The Arab-led parties’ 19 seats represent a historic showing and could make them influential in determining the next government.
Netanyahu Alleges Fraud
Netanyahu and his Likud party alleged that Arab-led parties stole the election, potentially with foreign assistance. The claims were not substantiated.
“The right-wing bloc has a clear, decisive majority among the Zionist public, among the Jewish public and all those who support the Jewish state. That is what has become clear. A decisive majority,” Netanyahu told celebrating supporters, according to the BBC.
“We must form a strong, national, right-wing government. That is what must be done.”
Eisenkot reacted to the outcome by saying the public had chosen change.
“The coalition of failure has lost the people’s trust. The Israeli public voted against Benjamin Netanyahu continuing as prime minister,” he said.
Israel’s election committee said allegations of systematic violations were baseless.
The Shin Bet security agency said its investigation into possible interference was not intended to cast suspicion on Arab voters.
What Happens Next
The results are expected to be certified and submitted to President Isaac Herzog next Wednesday. Herzog will then ask a politician to form a government, taking into account consultations with party leaders.
If attempts to form a government fail, Israel could hold another election early next year. The new Knesset is expected to be sworn in on November 10.
