Israel's 26th Knesset Inaugurated Amidst Deep Political Division
President Herzog calls for unity as Gadi Eisenkot faces coalition formation challenges.
1Inauguration of 26th Knesset
President Isaac Herzog officially opened the 26th Knesset, urging the 120 newly sworn-in members to prioritize national unity and compromise. With 46 lawmakers serving their first term, the assembly faces a delicate transition period. Herzog emphasized that the public demands stability, security, and peace following the recent October 27 national elections.
2Eisenkot's Coalition Mandate
Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Change Bloc, has been tasked with forming a new government within a 28-day window, extendable by 14 days. He must secure at least 61 seats to succeed. Failure to build this coalition could potentially return the mandate to outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, prolonging the political uncertainty.
3Legislative Reform Proposals
The Change Bloc has introduced several bills, including a state inquiry into the October 7 massacre and term limits for the prime minister. They also aim to reverse controversial judicial reforms implemented during Netanyahu's previous tenure. These legislative moves signal a direct challenge to the policies that dominated the previous parliamentary session.
4Tensions During Ceremony
The swearing-in ceremony was marked by significant unrest, particularly during the national anthem, Hatikva, when Arab party members exited the chamber. While Ra'am leader Mansour Abbas remained, the atmosphere remained volatile. Netanyahu’s speech further escalated tensions, as he attacked Arab parties and accused them of supporting terrorism to undermine Eisenkot.
5Netanyahu's Political Strategy
Netanyahu called for a national unity government while simultaneously attacking his rivals. He warned against relying on Arab parties and alleged foreign interference by Qatar in the elections, claims currently unverified. His rhetoric was designed to paint his opponents as threats to national security, complicating efforts to form a broad coalition.
6Negotiations Collapse
Following Netanyahu’s aggressive address, Gadi Eisenkot canceled a scheduled negotiation meeting with the Likud party. Eisenkot labeled the outgoing prime minister's speech as divisive, shameful, and delusional. He argued that Netanyahu prioritizes his own political survival over the unity and security of the Israeli state, effectively stalling the current coalition talks.
7Knesset Speaker Election
A critical test for the new parliament is scheduled for November 17, when members will vote for a new Knesset speaker. A coalition of 61 lawmakers has already requested the replacement of Likud’s Amir Ohana. They have collectively agreed to nominate Matan Kahana, a member of Eisenkot’s Yashar party, for the position.
8Future Political Outlook
The upcoming speaker vote represents the first major showdown between the emerging anti-Netanyahu bloc and the Likud. While Ohana has pledged to respect the majority's will, the deep animosity between the parties suggests a turbulent legislative term. Israel remains in a precarious state, balancing urgent security needs against intense internal political polarization.