Netanyahu Open to Broad National Government, Rules Out Coalition With Arab Parties

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed willingness to form a broad national government following the country's parliamentary elections but has firmly rejected any arrangement that would depend on support from Arab political parties. His position comes as rival political groups attempt to secure enough parliamentary backing to form Israel's next government.

Netanyahu said his Likud party was prepared to work with other political groups interested in joining a national government, provided they shared certain political and security positions. However, he made it clear that Arab-led parties, including Ra'am and the Joint List, would not be part of the coalition arrangement he was considering.

The prime minister's remarks highlight the growing political challenges facing Israel following an election that failed to produce a clear parliamentary majority. Under Israel's parliamentary system, a government requires the support of at least 61 members in the 120-seat Knesset. The election results have left both major political camps short of that number, increasing the importance of negotiations with smaller parties.

According to the reported seat distribution, Netanyahu's Likud-led bloc has secured 53 seats, while opposition parties hold 48. Arab-led parties account for another 19 seats, making their support potentially decisive in determining the country's next government. Opposition leaders are exploring an alternative government under Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party. Several political groups, including those associated with Naftali Bennett, Yair Golan and Avigdor Liberman, have reportedly indicated support for recommending Eisenkot to President Isaac Herzog.

The opposition-backed candidate could receive recommendations from 48 lawmakers, with the number potentially rising to 67 if both Arab parliamentary lists support his nomination. Reaching the required parliamentary majority remains complicated by disagreements among opposition parties over cooperation with Arab political groups. Some leaders have rejected such an arrangement, creating uncertainty about whether an alternative coalition can be established.

Netanyahu has also criticised the opposition's potential reliance on Arab parties, arguing that a government should be built around political groups that share his approach to national security and other key issues. President Isaac Herzog is expected to consult political representatives before deciding which lawmaker should receive the mandate to form the next government. These consultations will be an important step in determining whether Netanyahu can secure another term or whether opposition parties can unite behind an alternative candidate.

The newly elected Knesset is scheduled to be sworn in on November 10, adding urgency to the ongoing negotiations. Netanyahu's latest statement indicates that he remains interested in expanding his political support but is unwilling to compromise on the participation of Arab-led parties in his proposed coalition.

With neither major political camp holding an independent majority, the coming days are expected to play a crucial role in determining Israel's political future. The outcome of the negotiations could decide whether the country gets a broad national government or faces another prolonged period of political uncertainty.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.