Jerusalem:Gadi Eisenkot, who is in the process of forming Israel's next government, has cautioned caretaker Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against initiating military or security operations without an immediate threat. This warning comes as Israeli media report on the political dynamics unfolding in the country.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party, emphasized that Netanyahu is leading a caretaker government that no longer has the confidence of the Knesset, Israel's parliament. In a letter to Netanyahu, Eisenkot highlighted that only 46 Knesset members continue to support Netanyahu's role as prime minister.
Eisenkot stressed the importance of caution during this politically sensitive transition period, warning that deploying security forces without a direct and immediate threat could undermine Israeli democracy and public trust in government institutions. He urged Netanyahu to show national responsibility and restraint and to avoid any "dangerous moves" until a new government, enjoying the Knesset's confidence, is established.
Eisenkot has been tasked by Israeli President Isaac Herzog to form a government after receiving recommendations from parliamentary factions representing 67 lawmakers, in contrast to the 46 backing Netanyahu. This mandate follows the parliamentary elections held on October 27, where Netanyahu's bloc secured 53 seats, the opposition 48, and Arab parties 19 in the 120-member Knesset, leaving no clear majority.
The process of forming a governing coalition is complicated by disagreements among potential coalition partners regarding cooperation with Arab parties and military service exemptions sought by ultra-Orthodox factions. Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu, have agreed to negotiate with ultra-Orthodox parties, although Lieberman opposes forming a government dependent on Arab parties.
Meanwhile, Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats party, expressed optimism that a new government could be formed within three weeks, advocating for cooperation with the United Arab List (Ra'am) and support from the Arab Joint List.