Eisenkot Receives Mandate to Form Government, Calls for Unity

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, officially received the mandate from President Isaac Herzog on Sunday to form Israel's next government. In a speech at the President's Residence, Eisenkot declared his intention to establish a national emergency government, even if it requires "unusual political moves." He emphasized the critical juncture facing Israel and the necessity of forming a unified government.

Eisenkot directly appealed to the Likud and Religious Zionism parties, inviting them to support his proposed government. He stated that if they genuinely believe in unity, as they have declared to the President, there should be no reason for them to refuse support for his government and its principles. Eisenkot stressed that his door remains open to all factions and that unity is not a "political bargaining chip or an empty trick."

He issued a warning to any parties that might obstruct coalition talks for personal, rather than substantive, reasons. Eisenkot cautioned that such individuals would be remembered historically for failing to save Israel during a time of emergency. Eisenkot secured the mandate after receiving recommendations from 67 Knesset members, compared to 46 who recommended Benjamin Netanyahu. He now has 28 days to form a government, with a possible 14-day extension.

President Herzog addressed the nation's security and internal challenges, including the Iranian threat, the conscription issue, and the need for social reconciliation. He stressed the requirement for a stable government capable of long-term leadership and urged party leaders to pursue unity. Herzog specifically asked Eisenkot to form a government that serves all citizens, including those who did not vote for it, and requested wisdom, sensitivity, and caution from coalition negotiators. The President affirmed his readiness to assist in efforts to form a government that fosters national unity and healing.