Netanyahu Stays Silent on Coalition Talks After Election Win

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears encouraged by preliminary election results, with his Likud party securing the most votes and giving him a strong chance to form a new government. However, Netanyahu has refrained from making definitive statements about the future of his bloc, which includes ultra-Orthodox and right-wing parties. His strategy has shifted, notably marked by the absence of his traditional calls to coalition partners immediately after exit polls or the following morning. As of the article's publication, he had not contacted any coalition party leaders, instead focusing on analyzing results and planning future steps.

During a speech on the night of October 28, Netanyahu offered general assurances to coalition parties, stating they would be integral to his post-election initiatives. The prime minister's deviation from tradition is reportedly to maintain maneuvering room and influence President Yitzhak Herzog's decision on granting him the mandate to form a government. It also aims to preempt actions by the "change bloc" that could weaken his position, such as changes in the Knesset speaker or control of the organizational committee.

Netanyahu is reportedly exploring the possibility of cooperation with elements of the "change bloc" to avoid new elections. Key Likud ministers had suggested on the evening of October 27 that attempts should be made to engage right-wing figures like Avigdor Lieberman and Naftali Bennett. Current assessments indicate low chances of such a partnership, as both Lieberman and Bennett are expected to refuse joining Netanyahu's coalition. However, public opinion favoring a government of national unity could potentially alter this situation.

Netanyahu's emissaries are expected to hold discussions with representatives of the "change bloc" in the coming days to assess cooperation possibilities and coalition formation in a new configuration. Simultaneously, Netanyahu is anticipated to launch a public relations campaign against the "change bloc," particularly targeting their efforts to control the Knesset with the support of Arab parties. The "change bloc" anticipates this campaign will include attempts to divide opposition parties and persuade some Knesset members to switch allegiance to Likud or abstain from critical votes.