Israel election ends in deadlock, leaving government formation uncertain

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With about 48 percent of votes counted, projections put Netanyahu’s bloc at 56 of the Knesset’s 120 seats, compared with 49 for the opposition and 15 for Arab parties. Opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot says the result reflects a loss of confidence in Netanyahu’s government and has vowed to move quickly to replace it. The stalemate could nevertheless allow Netanyahu to remain caretaker prime minister while parties negotiate, with the outcome carrying implications for Israel’s wartime policy, relations with Washington and regional diplomacy.

Sources: SBS News, The Straits Times, Financial Times, Xinhua