Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may finish second in the national election scheduled for Tuesday but still retain power by forming a unity government with his rival, retired military chief Gadi Eisenkot, according to recent polling data. Neither Netanyahu’s nor Eisenkot’s blocs are projected to secure the 61-seat majority needed to form a government independently, setting the stage for a potentially unprecedented power-sharing arrangement.
The possibility of a rotation agreement, in which Netanyahu and Eisenkot would alternate as prime minister, is generating significant debate within Israel and among international observers. For Eisenkot and many of his supporters, the notion of enabling Netanyahu to remain in office—even on a shared basis—remains highly contentious. Eisenkot and his political alliance have strongly criticized Netanyahu, particularly for his handling of security issues following Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack and the ensuing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
Eisenkot’s camp has also expressed deep concern over Netanyahu’s alliances with far-right politicians who they say have contributed to escalating violence in the West Bank. These political dynamics have heightened tensions in the lead-up to the vote, underscoring the divisions within Israeli society and its political landscape.
From Netanyahu’s perspective, maintaining a role in government—even in a unified administration with a former rival—presents a strategic path to retain influence. Meanwhile, Eisenkot’s willingness to enter such a coalition reflects the fragmented nature of Israeli politics, where no single group currently commands a decisive parliamentary majority.
The outcome of Tuesday’s election will determine whether Israel moves forward under a unity government that balances competing visions for the country’s future or continues in a state of political deadlock. The Trump administration and other international actors are closely monitoring developments, given Israel’s critical role in regional stability and security.
As Israelis head to the polls, the uncertainty surrounding the election results highlights challenges in forming stable governance amid persistent domestic and regional pressures. Whether Netanyahu remains at the helm or shares power with Eisenkot, the composition of the next Israeli government is expected to shape the country’s policies on security, diplomacy, and internal affairs in the coming years.