Israeli President Herzog urges compromise after divisive election

On November 4, President Isaac Herzog urged Israeli political leaders to compromise in forming a government after an inconclusive election. He condemned racist rhetoric against Arab parties and emphasized the need for creativity and goodwill to avoid new elections. With no majority in parliament, Herzog is consulting party leaders to decide whether to task Prime Minister Netanyahu or rival Gadi Eisenkot with forming a government. The election saw increased support for Arab parties, which could influence the formation of a new government. Herzog condemned recent racist expressions and affirmed respect for the Arab minority, while the Central Elections Committee found no evidence of electoral fraud. Netanyahu faces pressure amid corruption charges and calls for a broad national government, while Eisenkot seeks to unite centrists against Netanyahu's divisive leadership.