Israeli President Urges Parties to Be Flexible Ahead of Coalition Talks

President Isaac Herzog announced that on Wednesday he will officially receive the election results and commence consultations with the various factions at the President's Residence regarding the formation of the next government. He called on party leaders to approach the discussions with open minds and hearts, emphasizing the need for flexibility and creative solutions to prevent further elections.

Speaking at the state memorial ceremony for Chaim Weizmann, Herzog urged party leaders to abandon the firm declarations made during the election campaign and adapt their positions to the election outcome. "As we all know, during an election campaign, naturally and predictably, candidates climb high trees. But the elections are over," he stated, urging leaders to "stop climbing trees and position yourselves in front of this reality."

Herzog will receive the official election results on Wednesday from the Chairman of the Central Elections Committee, Judge Noam Sohlberg. Following this, the consultations will begin. The President stressed that the President's Residence will be "wide open to all factions and parties," and encouraged them to come prepared for compromise and to explore options that will avert another election.

He concluded by describing his role in bridging gaps between parties, stating, "This week at the President's Residence, we will try to lay ladders, to allow the leaders to position themselves in front of this reality, in a balanced and careful manner."