Israel's election left no bloc with a majority. Here is how the next steps are expected to unfold, according to the Associated Press.
The count
Netanyahu's bloc: 53 seats. Main opposition under Gadi Eisenkot: 48. Arab-led parties: 19. A majority is 61 of 120.
The timeline
- Results are certified and submitted to President Isaac Herzog next Wednesday.
- Herzog then asks someone, perhaps the leader of the largest party, Netanyahu, or another figure party leaders prefer, to try to form a government.
- The new Knesset is expected to be sworn in Nov. 10.
- If repeated attempts fail, Israel holds another election early next year.
The possible outcomes
Parties could attempt a government involving Arab-led parties, a step taken only once before, briefly, in 2021. Some opposition figures could instead join Netanyahu in a unity government. Even without joining a government, Arab-led parties could help the opposition elect a Knesset speaker and control the agenda. Netanyahu remains prime minister while talks continue.
Sources: PBS NewsHour, Associated Press