Netanyahu eyes Israeli PM return through coalition deal with rivals

Netanyahu's path back to Israel's top office appears increasingly likely to involve a coalition agreement with former adversaries, mirroring the kind of pragmatic power-sharing arrangements common in Indian politics where ideological opponents unite to form viable governments. Such deals typically involve agreements on ministerial portfolios, policy priorities, and leadership rotation—mechanisms designed to satisfy competing political interests while maintaining government stability. The Israeli political system, with its proportional representation model, frequently produces fragmented parliaments where no single party holds a majority, necessitating multi-party coalitions similar to those witnessed in India's federal politics. Netanyahu has previously formed coalition governments but faces significant opposition from within his own party and from centrist and left-wing factions, making consensus-building essential. Analysts suggest that a coalition deal could provide Netanyahu the parliamentary numbers needed to form a government while allowing rival politicians to secure significant influence and ministerial positions, a strategy that has proven effective in managing diverse political interests across South Asian democracies.