Opposition leader admits to forming government with Arab parties

Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot expressed willingness to form a government with Arab parties, emphasizing four key principles for potential partners. These principles include recognizing Israel as a Jewish state, committing to the Declaration of Independence, mandatory military service for all citizens, and designating Hamas as a terrorist organization. Following recent elections, Eisenkot's party, Yashar!, secured 21 seats, while the Likud party won 27 seats. The opposition bloc requires support from Arab parties to achieve a governing majority. Eisenkot plans to introduce legislative measures, including an inquiry into Hamas attacks and mandatory military service. Protests occurred in Tel Aviv advocating for Arab party support, met by counter-protests from right-wing groups.