Politics · 2026-10-30 · Morning briefing

Israel election: Netanyahu and rival fall short of majority

Israel's election has produced a political deadlock, with final results showing neither major bloc can form a government. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing coalition finished with 53 seats in the 120-seat Knesset. His main rival, former military commander Gadi Eisenkot, led his alliance to 48 seats, leaving both sides well short of the 61 required for a majority.

This outcome places two Arab-Israeli lists in the position of kingmakers. Together, they secured a record 19 seats, an increase from their previous high of 15. Their electoral performance makes their support, or abstention, critical in the difficult coalition talks that are now expected.

The final count was accompanied by political friction. Mr Netanyahu's Likud party alleged large-scale foreign involvement from Qatar and Turkey, claims the prime minister called an 'unprecedented shock'. However, both Israeli police and the country's Central Election Committee have stated there is 'no basis' for the allegations.

Summary written by Cup of News with AI from the sources below. Check the originals for the full story.

Read the sources

• Netanyahu, chief rival fall short of parliamentary majority, leaving path to government unclear
• Netanyahu’s party claims election 'stolen' as results show him losing majority
• Israel faces deadlock in pivotal election as Netanyahu and ex-army chief rival set to fall short of majority
• Israel exit polls show deadlock as Netanyahu, opposition fall short of majority
• Israel election exit polls point to deadlock as rival blocs fall short of majority

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