# Eisenkot seeks wide government but path to power uncertain

> Netanyahu rival Gadi Eisenkot aims for quick government but faces unclear path to power.
- Title: Eisenkot seeks wide government but path to power uncertain
- Summary: Netanyahu rival Gadi Eisenkot aims for quick government but faces unclear path to power.
- Keywords: gadi eisenkot, benjamin netanyahu, knesset, yashar party, israeli government, election, ultra-orthodox parties, hamas, iran threat, gaza peace, The Straits Times
- Source: The Straits Times — https://straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/netanyahu-rival-eisenkot-seeks-wide-government-but-path-to-power-uncertain
- Published: 2026-11-08T17:38:41+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: gadi eisenkot, benjamin netanyahu, knesset, yashar party, israeli government, election, ultra-orthodox parties, hamas, iran threat, gaza peace, news, world
## Eisenkot given chance to form government
Former Israeli military chief Gadi Eisenkot was tasked with forming a new government after the Oct 27 election left both him and Netanyahu short of majority.

> We are in a state of emergency, approaching a point of no return for the State of Israel
## Eisenkot's urgent call for leadership
Eisenkot warned Israeli democracy is vulnerable as it faces threats from Iran, Gaza peace efforts, and Lebanon negotiations.

> There is great urgency for new leadership, leadership that people can look in the eye and trust
## Eisenkot's government options
Eisenkot could form a minority government with Arab party support, a coalition with ultra-Orthodox parties, or a unity government with Netanyahu.
## Eisenkot's principles for government
Eisenkot requires recognition of Israel as Jewish and democratic, national service for all, and Hamas as a terrorist organization.
## Eisenkot's timeline for government
Eisenkot has 28 days plus a possible 14-day extension to form a government or face new elections.
## Netanyahu's coalition short of majority
Netanyahu's Likud won 27 seats but his coalition only secured 53 seats, short of the 61 needed for majority in the 120-seat Knesset.
## Eisenkot's party strength
Eisenkot's Yashar party has 21 seats, while his coalition won 48 seats, with Arab parties securing 19 seats.
## Key takeaway

Former Israeli military chief Gadi Eisenkot seeks to form a wide government quickly but his path to power remains uncertain after a deadlocked election.