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Jerusalem: Israel’s newly elected 26th Knesset was officially sworn in on Tuesday, November 10, marking the beginning of a new parliamentary term. All 120 lawmakers took the oath of allegiance during the inaugural session in Jerusalem.
The swearing-in comes after Israel’s October 27 general election produced a politically divided parliament. Neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc nor the opposition secured enough seats to independently form a government.
Former military chief and opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot has now received the mandate to form Israel’s next government. President Isaac Herzog formally assigned him the responsibility on November 8.
Eisenkot has until December 6 to secure sufficient political support and establish a governing coalition. He may also request a two-week extension, potentially extending the deadline to December 20.
Political Deadlock Creates Challenges for Eisenkot
The election results have created a complicated political situation in Israel. Netanyahu’s Likud-led alliance holds 53 seats in the 120-member Knesset.
Meanwhile, Eisenkot’s Yashar party and its political partners control 48 seats. Arab-led parties hold the remaining 19 seats and oppose Netanyahu’s continued leadership.
These numbers make coalition negotiations particularly challenging. Eisenkot may need support from Arab-led parties, ultra-Orthodox factions or other political groups to secure a parliamentary majority.
A coalition requires the support of at least 61 lawmakers in the 120-member parliament.
Netanyahu Remains Caretaker Prime Minister
Despite the election outcome, Benjamin Netanyahu continues to serve as caretaker prime minister until a new government is established.
If Eisenkot fails to form a coalition within the allotted period, President Isaac Herzog could invite Netanyahu to attempt government formation.
Failure by both candidates could eventually lead to another general election.
New Parliament Faces Major Political Issues
The newly sworn-in lawmakers are also expected to address several important national issues.
Eisenkot and his political allies have already introduced proposals concerning an independent state inquiry into the October 7, 2023 attacks.
Other proposed measures include limiting prime ministerial terms and reversing controversial judicial reforms introduced under Netanyahu’s government.
President Herzog has urged lawmakers to work together and avoid another election. He called for compromise and political cooperation during the inaugural parliamentary ceremony.
Israel now faces a crucial period of coalition negotiations. The coming weeks will determine whether Eisenkot can assemble a government or whether Netanyahu will get another opportunity to retain power.
The December 6 deadline is expected to be a major turning point in Israel’s political future.
- Gadi Eisenkot government formation
- Israel political crisis 2026
- Benjamin Netanyahu latest news
- Israel parliament election 2026
- Israel coalition government
- Isaac Herzog
- Israel Knesset news
Category: International News
Suggested Image Alt Text: Israel’s 26th Knesset lawmakers take oath during swearing-in ceremony in Jerusalem on November 10, 2026.
Important facts and sources
The article incorporates additional verified details about the election and coalition negotiations.
- Reuters – Israel’s parliament sworn in as Eisenkot tries to forge a government.
- Israeli President’s Office – Eisenkot receives government formation mandate.
- The Guardian – Israeli opposition moves to take control as new Knesset is sworn in.
- The Times of Israel – 26th Knesset swearing-in coverage.
Editorial note: The December 6 deadline is the initial deadline, not an absolute final deadline. Eisenkot can seek an extension until December 20.