Israel: Eisenkot in pole position to form government as Netanyahu cries conspiracy

After legislative elections produced no clear majority, Gadi Eisenkot is expected to receive at least 56 recommendations to form a government, compared with 46 for Benjamin Netanyahu. The United Arab List (Raam), which holds 11 seats, is prepared to support a minority government from outside to bring about change. United Torah Judaism refuses to back either candidate without guarantees that young men will retain their exemption from military service. President Isaac Herzog must designate a candidate to form the government by November 11; that candidate will have 28 days, with a possible 14-day extension, to secure a majority of 61 lawmakers.