Netanyahu wants a 'strong, right-wing government' after the elections, but there is still no clear winner.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for a strong right-wing government after exit polls indicated a significant majority for the right-wing bloc. His Likud party remains the largest but has lost seats. The pro-Netanyahu bloc has 52 seats, while the anti-Netanyahu bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot has 49, with neither achieving a parliamentary majority. Arab parties have reportedly gained a record 18 or 19 seats, potentially influencing government formation. Eisenkot criticized Netanyahu's leadership and urged him to accept the public's call for change. The Arab party Ra'am expressed interest in joining a new coalition, despite challenges following recent events. Voter turnout reached 77.7%, the highest since 1999.