Israel's President Taps Eisenkot to Form Government

President Isaac Herzog officially tasked Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the National Unity Party, with forming a new government on Sunday. The ceremony took place at the President's Residence in Jerusalem, where Herzog presented Eisenkot with the mandate and urged him to establish a stable government.

Hersog's decision followed consultations with political figures and came after factions representing 67 Knesset members recommended Eisenkot, compared to 46 who recommended Benjamin Netanyahu. The seven Knesset members from United Torah Judaism abstained from recommending any candidate. Herzog explained that while the Likud is the largest party, Eisenkot secured the broadest support for his potential to form a government that could gain Knesset confidence.

"Eisenkot received clear and distinct support from the majority of Knesset members," the President stated, elaborating on his choice. He also addressed the significant security and diplomatic challenges facing Israel, including threats from Iran, negotiations with Lebanon, and the US plan for Gaza's future. The issue of military conscription, a point of contention among parties, was also raised, with Herzog emphasizing the need to address the IDF's needs.

Herzog stressed the necessity of a stable, long-term government to tackle concurrent economic, diplomatic, and social challenges. "The State of Israel needs a stable government that can stand up to them, over time. This is the time to extend a hand, to do everything for the unity of the people," he declared. He directly appealed to Eisenkot, expressing his expectation that he would "do everything in his power to establish a government that will serve the entire people, those who supported it and those who did not."

The President also referenced his long acquaintance with Eisenkot and the personal toll of the war on his family, with the loss of his son Gal and two nephews. Eisenkot now has 28 days to form a government, with a possible 14-day extension.