Netanyahu Bloc Falls Short, Opposition Eyes Coalition Amid Fraud Claims
Arab-led parties secure record seats as President Herzog calls for investigation into election integrity.
Callum Smith
Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc failed to secure a majority in the 120-member Israeli parliament.
More than 800,000 people voted for Ra'am and the Joint List, a staggering 60% increase from the 2022 elections.
Mainstream Israeli parties historically resisted partnering with Arab-led factions. However, Netanyahu’s opponents welcomed Ra’am into a short-lived coalition government in 2021.
The election results still require certification and submission to the president. President Isaac Herzog called for a full investigation into the electoral process, warning against tarnishing an entire community.
Benjamin Netanyahu's party claims Arab parties 'stole' the election. Netanyahu himself alleged foreign powers bribed voters to back Arab-led parties, further claiming Israel faces 'Islamisation,' which he states would lead to the 'Islamization of Israel.'
Members of Mr. Netanyahu's party accused Qatar of interference, an allegation Qatar denied. The Shin Bet stated its investigation was not meant to cast aspersions on the Arab population.
Israeli police and the central elections committee stated there is no evidence of election fraud. Ahmad Tibi confirmed discussions with the opposition bloc about replacing the Knesset speaker.