Israeli opposition seeks to challenge Netanyahu in new parliament

Israel's newly elected parliament faces pressure to unite behind a government formation after years of political turmoil that has fractured the nation. President Herzog made a direct appeal to all sides to set aside their differences and work toward a stable administration, warning that another round of elections would further strain a country already exhausted by prolonged internal divisions.

Former military chief Gadi Eisenkot has emerged as a potential candidate to lead government negotiations, signalling a possible shift in Israeli politics. His entry into the process reflects growing demands from various political quarters for a fresh approach to bridge the nation's deep ideological divides.

The appeals for cooperation come amid mounting pressure to end the political stalemate that has plagued Israeli governance. Multiple election cycles in recent years have left the country fragmented, with no single faction commanding sufficient support to govern independently.

Parliamentary leaders are expected to begin formal coalition negotiations in the coming days, with the formation of a broad-based government seen as essential to addressing both domestic and security concerns that have accumulated during the extended period of political instability.