Eisenkot receives broad backing as Israel’s government-forming process continues

Gadi Eisenkot won more recommendations than Benjamin Netanyahu in consultations with President Isaac Herzog, but backing for his nomination does not guarantee a coalition. Reports differ on whether Herzog has formally assigned him the task; the next step described by ABC News is a formal invitation on Sunday, followed by a 28-day period to form a government.

• Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party, received 67 lawmakers’ recommendations, compared with 46 for Netanyahu, according to The Times of India.· 1 source
• ABC News reports that Herzog chose Eisenkot to get the first opportunity to form a coalition, with a formal invitation planned for Sunday and 28 days to form one.· 1 source
• The Times of India says Herzog had not yet formally assigned Eisenkot the mandate and planned further consultations before deciding on Sunday.· 1 source
• Eisenkot faces coalition-building obstacles: some recommenders are unwilling to join his government, and the Joint List has ruled out formally joining it, according to The Times of India.· 1 source
• ABC News notes that Arab-Israeli and Palestinian-Israeli parties hold 19 seats in the next Knesset and that their role is central to coalition discussions.· 1 source