Eisenkot tasked to form government as Netanyahu rejects criticism
Netanyahu's office has dismissed Eisenkot's warning and accused him of politicising national security. President Isaac Herzog appointed Eisenkot on Sunday to build a coalition within 28 days, with a possible two‑week extension. Defence Minister Israel Katz said the caretaker government can act without opposition or legal clearance for military strikes. Israel's parliament was sworn this week, but a new government remains unformed. Eisenkot, a former chief of staff, seeks support from Arab or ultra‑Orthodox parties to reach a majority.
Key facts
- Eisenkot is 66 years old.
- If formed, his government would make him the third former chief of staff prime minister.
- Raam and the Joint List together hold 19 seats, about one‑sixth of the 120‑seat Knesset.
- Arab citizens comprise over 20% of Israel's population.
- Mossad Director Roman Gofman is in Washington meeting CIA Director John Ratcliffe.
Summarised with AI from 5 sources · Updated 02:11Read our AI policy
Why it matters
The coalition outcome will shape Israel's security policy and minority relations.
What changed
DW joined as a source
Summary updated
First published from Anadolu Agency, The Jerusalem Post, Middle East Eye, The Straits Times and The Times of India