With 86% of votes counted, Israel’s three main broadcasters projected Netanyahu’s bloc to secure 53 seats in the 120-seat Knesset. This places the bloc well ahead of the 48 seats needed for a majority. However, the results do not yet provide a clear winner.
Netanyahu’s right-wing, far-right, and ultra-Orthodox coalition remains the largest, but it lacks the 61 seats required to form a government. The partial results show the bloc is set to win 53 seats, according to preliminary tallies.
The election, held amid political instability, saw Netanyahu’s allies lose ground compared to previous elections. Despite this, his bloc still holds a slight lead. The final outcome will depend on the remaining 500,000 absentee ballots yet to be counted.
Netanyahu has faced allegations of election fraud, with some claiming the results were influenced by Arab voters. However, these claims remain unsubstantiated. His opponents argue that the election results reflect a shift in public opinion.
This election follows months of political turmoil, including failed coalition governments and public dissatisfaction with Netanyahu’s leadership. The outcome will determine whether Netanyahu remains in power as a caretaker prime minister or if a new government must be formed.
The situation highlights the ongoing political challenges in Israel, with no clear path to a stable government in sight. The final results will be announced once all ballots are counted.
