Israel's President Begins Coalition Consultations Amidst Political Uncertainty

President Isaac Herzog has commenced consultations at his Jerusalem residence regarding the formation of a new government following the recent elections. Representatives from the Religious Zionism party, led by MK Orit Struk, recommended Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as their candidate to form the next government. During the consultations, Struk, who also serves as Minister for Settlement Affairs and National Tasks, made strong remarks about Arab parties and Arab citizens of Israel, stating they are not legitimate for the process because they view Israel's establishment as a "Nakba" (catastrophe) and support Israel's enemies. President Herzog questioned how to avoid racism, to which Struk responded that Arab citizens had the option to vote for an Arab candidate who served in the IDF, Yosef Haddad, but instead chose parties that consider Israel's founding a catastrophe.

The President aims to hear from all parties to explore avenues for reaching agreements and forming a government, and does not rule out further consultations. After these meetings, he will task a Knesset member with forming the government, who will have 28 days, extendable by another 14. Preparations are also being made for potential military escalation, with consultations possibly held elsewhere. The mandate to form a government is expected to be given between November 6 and November 10. If the prospects remain unclear, the President may initiate another round of consultations or summon party leaders.

The Central Election Commission has officially certified the results of the 26th Knesset elections. The commission's chairman, Noam Solberg, warned against challenging the election results' legitimacy, emphasizing the danger to peaceful power transitions and democratic principles. Solberg also mentioned an ongoing Shin Bet investigation into suspected foreign interference in the elections, assuring that all relevant bodies are working to uncover the truth. He stated that the Election Commission has no grounds to refuse publication of the results and that any subsequent claims can be addressed through legal channels, stressing that the voting of Arab society, like any other group, should not be questioned.

President Herzog expressed confidence in the Shin Bet, police, and other law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate any suspicions of foreign interference. He also addressed the Arab community in Israel, condemning racist remarks and expressing deep respect for Arab society's contributions and integration efforts. He urged for mutual understanding even amidst disagreements, stating that the elections are over and it is time to confront reality. The Central Election Commission approved the election results with 15 votes in favor, while 14 members from the current coalition abstained and two voted against. Representatives from Otzma Yehudit voted against the approval, while Likud, Religious Zionism, Shas, and Yahadut HaTorah abstained. Representatives from Yesh Atid, Democrats, Yisrael Beiteinu, Blue and White, and Arab parties voted in favor.