Israeli President Urges Parties to Enter Talks with Open Minds

Following the 26th Knesset elections, Israeli President Isaac Herzog is preparing to receive the official results and commence consultations with the various factions. His primary appeal to all parties is to avoid another election cycle, emphasizing a non-partisan approach and no interference in coalition negotiations.

President Herzog will hear the positions of all factions at the President's Residence, as per protocol, before deciding whom to task with forming a government. He stressed that given the election outcomes, elected officials must demonstrate responsibility and a willingness to explore options that prevent further elections.

However, Herzog did not endorse any specific coalition composition or hint at a preference for any prime ministerial candidate. His message aims to encourage all factions to be open-minded and work towards a political solution. "One thing must be understood, and I said this even before the elections, everything must be done, certainly after yesterday, not to have more elections. So I expect everyone who comes here, to come here with an open mind," the President stated.

The consultation process is expected to be handled with great delicacy and care, respecting the President's authority and ensuring all factions' views are heard. The call for an "open mind" does not signify support for any particular government but rather a desire to encourage elected officials to act responsibly and exhaust all possibilities for government formation without resorting to new elections.