Israeli President Isaac Herzog has called on lawmakers to avoid a repeat election and launch an investigation into the October 7 attacks, as political gridlock follows recent elections.
Herzog called on party leaders to 'make concessions' and do 'everything possible to avoid a repeat election' at the swearing-in of newly elected members in the 26th Knesset on Tuesday. He also tasked opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot with forming the next government, giving him 28 days to build a coalition, with a possible 14-day extension.
Eisenkot and his allies, while also short of a parliamentary majority, hope to use their newfound legislative power to move rapidly to establish an independent inquiry into the October 7 attacks. Netanyahu has previously refused to form a commission to investigate the attacks, arguing that a panel appointed by the Israeli Supreme Court would be biased against the government. Herzog also emphasized the need to fortify the alliance with the United States amid increasing disapproval of Israel among the US public due to the genocidal war on Gaza and the US-Israel war on Iran.
Why it matters
The call for an inquiry into the October 7 attacks and the political pressure to avoid another election directly affect Israel’s legislative and executive branches.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The formation of a new government by Gadi Eisenkot within the 28-day deadline and the establishment of an independent inquiry into the October 7 attacks.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.