The focal point is a political moment in Israel as Benjamin Netanyahu appears set to return as prime minister amid what observers describe as the most right-leaning government in the country’s 75-year history. After the election, Netanyahu, leader of the Likud party, sought and received broad backing, signaling a transition after a prolonged political process. The sequence of events unfolded as Netanyahu acknowledged the political reality in a message to the nation, underscoring the momentum toward a formal coalition that would place him at the helm once again.
The prospective coalition is described as a mix of parties aligned with Netanyahu’s agenda, combining Likud with Shas, United Torah Judaism, and other right-wing theocratic and nationalist partners. The stated numerical strength of these groups yields a working majority within the Knesset, meeting and surpassing the 64-seat threshold required for governance when combined with smaller supporter blocs. The flow of confirmation appeared to hinge on a final sign-off from the president and legislative leaders, with announcements anticipated as the process moved forward.
Yes.
— Netanyahu —
Because of a holiday period tied to Hanukkah, lawmakers were temporarily unable to convene, delaying formal deliberations. When the Knesset reconvenes, its speaker is expected to inform members about the establishment of a new executive body. This step would activate the Basic Government Act and set a schedule in which the cabinet would be sworn in within roughly a week. The country would then be moving toward a new administration before the year ends, though the precise date for the official oath remains contingent on legislative and ceremonial arrangements.
Questions remained about the presence and participation of all ministers once named. Some individuals who signed coalition agreements were anticipated to take up cabinet roles, while others awaited final parliamentary votes to approve the full governmental package. Among the allocations discussed were the Home Affairs and Health portfolios for a two-year period under Arye Dery, followed by a two-year rollout of the Finance portfolio. Legal scrutiny has appeared in various corners of the coalition process, including a review of eligibility considerations tied to past legal matters. Observers noted that changes to expand the powers of certain ministers, including national security, were part of the ongoing negotiations and reshaping of the next government’s responsibilities.