Israel's 26th Knesset Convenes Amid Political Discord

The 26th Knesset began its term with lawmakers taking their loyalty oaths, amidst calls to form a government and avoid new elections, as political disagreements intensified over the composition of the upcoming coalition. President Isaac Herzog urged lawmakers to make every effort to prevent another election, noting that approximately 80% of voters chose them and that the public desires normalcy, security, stability, and initiatives that foster unity and hope. Outgoing Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana stated that the new parliament presents an opportunity for unity but highlighted significant ongoing security challenges, particularly from Iran and Hamas. He criticized those who only label Hamas as terrorist within coalition negotiations and called for those who fought together in the field to work together in political leadership. Politically, the Shas party reaffirmed its support for Benjamin Netanyahu, denying negotiations with other parties, despite reports of its potential coalition entry if United Torah Judaism joins. Conversely, Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir demanded new elections, alleging fraud, vote manipulation, and foreign interference, and announced his party would petition against the results. Concurrently, hundreds of right-wing supporters demonstrated outside the Knesset, urging party leaders not to cooperate with entities that do not classify Hamas as a terrorist organization, warning that such cooperation threatens Israeli sovereignty in the Negev and Galilee.