Arab parties pledge backing for Eisenkot to lead Israeli government

The Joint List, representing Arab-majority constituencies in Israel, announced its willingness to support Eisenkot in coalition negotiations after the general election last week. The move signals a potential path forward for government formation in the Jewish state, where no single party secured a decisive majority in the 120-seat Knesset.

The Arab-led parties achieved a record performance in the polls, winning 19 seats—their strongest showing to date. This electoral result has positioned them as potential kingmakers in the delicate process of assembling a governing coalition.

Eisenkot, a former military chief of staff, would need to secure backing from a majority of parliamentarians to form a government. The Joint List's endorsement provides a significant bloc of support, though coalition negotiations typically involve multiple parties with varying policy demands and political interests.

The development reflects shifting political dynamics in Israel, where Arab parties have historically remained outside government coalitions. Their increased parliamentary representation and willingness to engage in coalition discussions underscore evolving political arrangements in the country.