Arab Joint List signals potential conditional support for Eisenkot government

Newly elected Knesset members from the Arab Joint List, Bakr Awada and Hassan al-Nasara, stated in an interview with the Jordanian network Al-Mamlaka on November 1, 2026, that their primary political objective is the removal of Benjamin Netanyahu from power. While they have signaled an openness to supporting a government led by opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot, they have categorically rejected four specific pre-election conditions previously set by the former army chief, arguing that these terms marginalize Arab citizens of Israel.

Despite the public posturing, the Arab lawmakers confirmed that no official contact or negotiations have taken place with Gadi Eisenkot regarding the formation of a governing coalition. The Joint List representatives emphasized that their commitment to their electorate requires them to demand concrete policy changes rather than seeking ministerial positions. Furthermore, Awada noted that Eisenkot is currently struggling with internal divisions within his own political bloc concerning the feasibility and limitations of partnering with Arab parties.

As of now, the situation remains fluid, with the Joint List waiting for an official approach while maintaining their rejection of Eisenkot's pre-election “red lines.” No formal timeline for coalition talks has been announced.