Benjamin Netanyahu faces multiple scenarios for Israeli government formation

Following recent political developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is navigating several potential paths to form a new government. One discussed scenario involves President Isaac Herzog proposing a national unity government where Netanyahu would serve for two years before stepping down in exchange for a general pardon regarding his legal trials, though Netanyahu has historically refused political retirement.

Another scenario involves the Likud party escalating rhetoric against Arab political blocs. Despite achieving record numbers, these blocs hold significant influence, and Netanyahu seeks to prevent political opponents from forming alliances with them by accusing critics of cooperating with Hamas-aligned forces.

A third possibility involves Netanyahu attempting to win over right-wing opposition figures, such as Naftali Bennett or Avigdor Liberman, potentially through ministerial positions and American diplomatic mediation. This path would likely require the exclusion of Itamar Ben-Gvir from the cabinet to satisfy certain coalition partners.