Israel's new parliament sworn in as Eisenkot tries to form government

· Politics · Israel

Israel's new 120-member Knesset was sworn in Tuesday, giving opposition politicians their first chance to take control of the legislature even as they struggle to form a government to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Gadi Eisenkot, the former military chief tasked with forming a government, pledged to launch an official inquiry into the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, probe security failures and reverse many of Netanyahu's policies. President Isaac Herzog urged lawmakers to "do everything to avoid another election." Eisenkot's bloc lacks a majority and has yet to strike coalition deals; Netanyahu is waiting if he fails.

Why it matters：Who governs Israel will determine the course of the Gaza war, judicial changes and relations with Washington and Arab states.

Key points

  • Eisenkot has the first mandate to form a government.
  • He pledged an official inquiry into the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.
  • His bloc lacks a majority and has not sealed coalition deals.

Sources (original reporting)

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