Israel election results show Netanyahu losing parliamentary majority

As of November 29, over 95% of votes in Israel’s parliamentary elections have been processed. Unofficial projections indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc has secured 54 seats, falling short of the 61 seats required for a majority in the 120-member Knesset. The opposition, led by Gadi Eisenkot, holds 48 seats, while Arab parties hold 18 seats.

While the opposition and Arab parties mathematically possess the potential for a majority, no coalition agreement has been reached, and some opposition leaders have expressed reluctance to form a government dependent on Arab party support. Official results are expected on November 4.

Separately, the Central Elections Committee President, Judge Noam Solberg, has requested that the Shin Bet investigate allegations of foreign funding and unlawful influence on the electoral process. President Isaac Herzog supported a thorough investigation but cautioned against stigmatizing the Arab population.

In southern Israel, heavy rainfall and flooding in the Arava region significantly hindered voting access on October 28, with many roads becoming impassable and preventing citizens from reaching polling stations.