"Leave politics." Appeal from the opposition leader to Benjamin Netanyahu after the elections in Israel

Gadi Eisenkot believes the recent election results indicate a desire for change in Israeli leadership, as neither the right-wing bloc nor his opposition bloc secured a majority. Exit polls suggest both blocs received around 50 seats each in the Knesset, with the opposition slightly ahead. The Arab parties, potentially winning about 18 seats, could play a crucial role, despite previous exclusions from coalition talks. Eisenkot called for Netanyahu to accept the voters' decision and step back from politics, emphasizing the high voter turnout of 77.7%. He proposed a 'Zionist government' and mandatory military service for all, including ultra-Orthodox Jews. If no majority is formed, new elections could occur in early 2027. Netanyahu, facing corruption charges and criticism for the Hamas attack, has led the government for nearly 19 years over the past 30.