Dateline: October 30, 2026
Israel’s Central Elections Committee has published the final results of the country’s parliamentary election, confirming that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political bloc secured 53 seats in the 120-member Knesset, falling short of the majority required to form a government.
The new Knesset is scheduled to take oath on November 10, while political parties prepare for coalition negotiations following the inconclusive election. The opposition bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot secured 48 seats, while Arab-led parties won a combined 19 seats.
Netanyahu’s Likud Emerges as Largest Party
Netanyahu’s Likud party secured 27 seats, making it the largest individual party in the Knesset. Eisenkot’s Yashar party finished second with 21 seats, followed by Naftali Bennett’s B’Yachad with 12 seats.
The final results leave Netanyahu’s bloc eight seats short of the 61-seat majority needed to form a government. The opposition bloc also remains below the majority threshold, leaving government formation dependent on negotiations and possible political partnerships.
Arab Parties Secure 19 Seats
Arab-led political parties recorded a combined 19 seats in the election, with the Joint List winning 11 and Ra’am securing eight.
Their parliamentary representation could become important during coalition negotiations. However, political disagreements and opposition to cooperation with Arab-led parties complicate the possibility of forming a governing majority.
The final voter turnout was reported at 77.9%, with more than 5.7 million votes cast.
Coalition Talks to Determine Israel’s Next Government
The election results have left Israel without a clear parliamentary majority. Netanyahu remains caretaker prime minister while political leaders explore possible arrangements to form the next government.
The opposition could seek support from Arab-led parties, but disagreements among political groups present significant challenges. Other possibilities include a unity government or further negotiations involving parties from different political blocs.
If no candidate can secure the necessary parliamentary support, Israel could face another election. The government formation process is expected to continue after the official results are submitted to President Isaac Herzog.
New Knesset to Begin on November 10
The 26th Knesset is scheduled to take oath on November 10, following the publication of the final election results.
The next stage will focus on coalition negotiations and identifying a candidate capable of securing parliamentary backing. Until a new government is formed, Netanyahu is expected to remain in office as caretaker prime minister.
