Netanyahu leads Israel vote but falls short of majority

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political bloc has taken the lead in the country’s general election but remains short of a parliamentary majority, with vote counting continuing on Wednesday.

With 66 per cent of ballots counted, Netanyahu’s alliance had secured 54 seats in the 120-member parliament, while the opposition bloc led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot held 48 seats. Arab parties were projected to win 18 seats, potentially giving them a decisive role in determining who forms the next government.

The partial results could change as more ballots are counted. Final results are expected by Thursday evening or Friday morning.

The election drew nearly 78 per cent turnout, the highest since 1999, as voters delivered their verdict on Netanyahu’s leadership and his government’s hard-right policies. The prime minister has led Israel for nearly two decades across several terms and has faced growing domestic and international criticism over the wars following the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023.

Both Netanyahu and Eisenkot have vowed to form the next government despite neither bloc securing a clear majority in the initial count.

Addressing supporters in Jerusalem, Netanyahu called for a strong right-wing government, arguing that Jewish and Zionist political forces should unite. He did not declare victory, as the results remained uncertain.

Eisenkot, meanwhile, said the public had voted for change and urged Netanyahu not to use national security concerns for political purposes. He pledged to work quickly with his allies to establish a new administration.

The strong performance of Arab-led parties has emerged as one of the election’s most significant developments. Their increased support could allow Eisenkot’s bloc to reach the 61-seat threshold if an agreement is reached.

However, cooperation with Arab lawmakers remains controversial among several opposition parties. Eisenkot had said during the campaign that he would not govern with Israeli Arab lawmakers, a position that could complicate efforts to build a majority.