Netanyahu's bloc secured 53 seats in the 120-seat Knesset, according to partial results. The right-wing, far-right, and ultra-Orthodox coalition remains the largest. However, it lacks the 61 seats needed for a majority.
Ballots are still being counted, with nearly 86% of votes tallied. Israeli media projected Netanyahu's bloc would win 53 seats, surpassing the 48 secured by the opposition. The Likud party and its allies are expected to hold the most seats.
Despite the lead, Netanyahu faces challenges. His bloc lost its parliamentary majority, leaving room for smaller parties to influence the outcome. Opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot is seen as a potential rival.
The election results have triggered political uncertainty. Netanyahu may remain caretaker prime minister until a coalition is formed. The process could take weeks.
This election follows years of political instability. Netanyahu has been in power since 2009, with multiple coalition governments. His leadership has been marked by ongoing conflicts and domestic policy debates.
The outcome could reshape Israel's political landscape. The rise of smaller parties and the potential for a new government may lead to significant changes in Israeli politics.
