Israeli Election Results: Parties Declare Victory, Warn of New Elections

Following the announcement of all media poll results in Israel's general election, party leaders addressed supporters, with coalition parties expressing hope for a different outcome than polls suggested, while opposition parties declared victory. Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Hatnuah party, stated that the public had decided in favor of change and that it would be a mistake to hold new elections. He emphasized the need to form a "Zionist enlistment government" committed to Israel's democratic and Jewish identity, the Declaration of Independence, universal service, and dismantling Hamas. Eisenkot also directly addressed security officials and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling Netanyahu a "caretaker prime minister without a mandate" and urging security personnel to serve only Israeli citizens and resist political pressure. He envisioned a new era for Israel characterized by hope, solidarity, and friendship, moving beyond division and unnecessary incitement.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking as leader of the Likud party, asserted that the right-wing bloc holds a clear majority among the Zionist public and called for the "Zionist and Jewish majority to come to its senses and unite" to form a "right-wing, national, and strong government."

Naftali Bennett, leader of the Yamina party, announced that opposition leaders had begun coordinating to form a government, framing the election as a victory for those serving in the army over "draft dodgers." He pledged to form a "Zionist enlistment government" that would manage the state responsibly.

Yair Lapid, number two in the Yamina party, discussed the possibility of forming a minority government, stating that the side with more votes has the right and duty to form a government, even if it's not ideal initially. Itamar Ben-Gvir, leader of Otzma Yehudit, supported Channel 14's poll, which showed the coalition with 60 seats, and expressed belief in forming a right-wing government. Avigdor Lieberman of Yisrael Beiteinu urged patience, noting the significant number of uncounted "double envelopes" likely containing votes from soldiers and reservists, which could alter the results.

Bezalel Smotrich of the Religious Zionism party also referenced the double envelopes, suggesting soldier votes might increase his party's seat count from an initial seven. Yair Golan of the Democratic Union declared victory for the change bloc, stating the Israeli public had ousted Netanyahu and the Likud.