Netanyahu seeks broad coalition but excludes Arab parties from talks

Benjamin Netanyahu said he remains committed to leading Israel's next government and is prepared to negotiate with a wide range of potential coalition partners to secure a parliamentary majority. The Israeli premier's willingness to pursue broad coalition-building comes as his party faces questions over its electoral performance in recent voting.

However, Netanyahu drew a clear line regarding Arab political parties, stating they would have no role in any government formed under his leadership. The prime minister cited security concerns and terrorism-related allegations against Arab parties as the basis for excluding them from coalition discussions, a position that has long characterised his political stance.

Meanwhile, Likud officials are pursuing legal challenges to delay certification of the election results. Party representatives have made allegations of foreign interference in the electoral process, though these claims remain unsubstantiated by independent observers.

The manoeuvres underscore the complex political landscape in Israel, where coalition governments are typically necessary given the country's parliamentary system and fragmented political landscape. Netanyahu's approach suggests intensive negotiations lie ahead as potential coalition partners assess the terms under which they might join his government.