Netanyahu's rule coming to an end? Path clear for Jewish-Arab alliance in Israel, Gadi Eisenkot determined to form government

TEL AVIV: Opposition alliance leader Gadi Eisenkot has stepped up efforts to end Benjamin Netanyahu's rule in Israel. He reportedly plans to form a coalition government, saying people have voted to change the country.

Eisenkot has reportedly laid down four key conditions for parties seeking to join the proposed coalition. They include recognising Israel as a Jewish, democratic, liberal and equal state; upholding the principles of Israel's Declaration of Independence; introducing compulsory military service for all citizens; and recognising Hamas as a terrorist organisation while supporting the complete removal of its rule in Gaza.

Thousands of Israelis had taken to the streets on Saturday, demanding that the opposition join hands with Arab parties to end Netanyahu's rule. During protests in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, demonstrators called for Jewish-Arab political cooperation by setting aside ideological differences. They said that the Jewish and Arab majority that voted for change should be reflected in the next government as well. The protesters also stressed that Arab and Jewish votes should carry equal weight.

The election results were announced the other day. The alliance led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party secured only 53 of the 120 seats in the Israeli Parliament. It failed to reach the majority mark of 61 seats required to form a government. The alliance led by Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar party, Netanyahu's main challenger, won 48 seats, while Arab parties secured 19 seats.

With no alliance securing a majority, negotiations to form a new coalition and take power have gained momentum. The Likud-led alliance needs eight more seats to reach the majority mark, while the opposition requires the support of 13 more members. The opposition cannot form a government without the backing of Arab parties.

The official election results will be submitted to President Isaac Herzog on November 4. The newly elected Parliament will meet on November 10. The process of government formation will begin after consultations with various political parties. If the talks fail, Israel could head for another general election.