Israel’s New Parliament Begins Work Amid Uncertainty Over Government Formation

Israel's new parliament began its work on Tuesday, but uncertainty over the formation of a new government remains unresolved two weeks after the election.

Neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc nor the opposition alliance led by Gadi Eisenkot has secured a parliamentary majority. As a result, Netanyahu will remain caretaker prime minister until a new government is formed, retaining significant powers over state affairs, security and foreign policy.

A majority of 61 seats is required to form a government in Israel's 120-member parliament, the Knesset.

On Sunday, President Isaac Herzog formally tasked Eisenkot with the initial responsibility of forming a government. He has 28 days to complete the process, with the possibility of a further 14-day extension.

Under Israeli law, the outgoing government can remain in office until a new administration is sworn in. Consequently, Netanyahu will continue to exercise authority over the military, security-related decisions and key appointments in his capacity as caretaker prime minister.

However, launching a new war requires cabinet approval, meaning Netanyahu cannot independently initiate military action.

Analysts have expressed concerns that he could use existing tensions involving Iran and Lebanon as a pretext for military action. Israel's domestic intelligence agency, Shin Bet, also reports directly to the prime minister.

A total of 120 lawmakers are set to take their oaths in Israel's 26th Knesset. The swearing-in ceremony took place in Jerusalem on Tuesday.

According to The Times of Israel, 46 members of the new parliament are newcomers. The number of female lawmakers has also increased compared with the previous parliament, with 33 women taking seats.

The party led by Gadi Eisenkot, Yashar, has 21 seats, 15 of which will be occupied by newly elected lawmakers.

Eisenkot's opposition bloc holds 48 seats. It could potentially secure a parliamentary majority with the support of 19 Arab-Israeli lawmakers.

However, opposition leader Avigdor Lieberman has opposed forming a government that depends on the support of Arab parties.

Meanwhile, there is also the possibility of securing support from ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, which hold 13 seats.

As caretaker prime minister, Netanyahu cannot pass new legislation to shield himself from his ongoing corruption trial.

However, some financial decisions taken by his outgoing government could increase the financial burden on its successor.

Netanyahu is also attempting to exploit divisions within the opposition.

Meanwhile, opposition lawmakers in the new parliament are planning to push for the establishment of an investigative commission to examine security failures.