Israeli Media Say Netanyahu Has the Best Chance to Form a New Government

Israeli media estimates from election statistics indicate that Benjamin Netanyahu has the highest chance of forming a government, paving his way to the prime minister's office for the fifth time. The Knesset website and Channel 12 of Israel report that 95% of counted votes show that Netanyahu's Likud party is in a close competition with the main rival coalition, the 'Blue and White', with both parties currently securing 35 seats each. Reuters states that although neither party can secure a majority of the 120 seats in the Israeli parliament, the results suggest that the odds favor a coalition and government formation with the right-wing parties and Netanyahu. The Times of Israel, based on 97% of counted votes, confirms that both main rivals have obtained 35 seats but notes that 'Netanyahu has a clear path to form a government'. The Israeli newspaper Haaretz also published a similar report on the number of seats, emphasizing that right-wing parties are 'clearly in a better position' to form a government compared to left and center parties. Benjamin Netanyahu, the 69-year-old leader of the Likud party, served as prime minister in the 1990s and has held the position for three consecutive terms over the past decade. He is currently in a tough competition to retain the prime ministership. Generals Benny Gantz, Moshe Ya'alon, and Gabi Ashkenazi, all former chiefs of staff of the army, along with Yair Lapid, leader of the 'There is a Future' party, formed the 'Blue and White' coalition two months ago to challenge Netanyahu. AFP had previously identified 'corruption allegations' against Netanyahu, which the Israeli prime minister described as a 'political witch hunt', as well as economic conditions, further annexation of Palestinian territories, and other issues as key campaign topics. AFP quoted critics of Netanyahu stating that he employs 'populist' and 'divisive' policies that demonize Arabs and other minorities residing in Israel. Netanyahu has promised to annex more Palestinian territories to Israel, described his rivals as 'weak' in ensuring Israel's security, and claimed that Benny Gantz intends to form a coalition with Arab-Israeli political parties. Benny Gantz stated he does not intend to ally with Arab parties but mentioned he could 'heal the wounds' that Netanyahu's policies have inflicted on Israeli society. Arab Israelis make up about 17.5% of the country's population. Haaretz reported that Arab participation in this year's elections has 'unprecedentedly' decreased. Official election results are expected to be announced on Wednesday.