Israeli President Isaac Herzog has appointed Yasher Party chairman Gadi Eisenkot to form a new government. The decision was taken after consultation with various political parties in the Knesset (Israel’s parliament). The president’s move is seen as a major blow to incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is trying to stay in power.
President Isaac Herzog will formally invite Eisenkot to form the government during a ceremony at the presidential palace on Sunday evening (local time). Eisencott will have 28 days to form a government. The President can grant them an additional 14 days if necessary. According to the President’s Office, 67 political groups recommended Eisenkot, while 46 supported incumbent Prime Minister and Likud Party Chairman Benjamin Netanyahu. Seven MPs did not recommend any leader.
President Isaac Herzog said he had held extensive discussions over the past few days with several key figures in the political establishment, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot. The President has informed Eisencott of his decision. However, this does not mean that Eisencott has the necessary majority to form a government. The President has only given them a chance to form a coalition government. Eisencott’s challenge will be to bring together parties with different ideologies and gain their support.