Arab-led Joint List party nominates Gadi Eisenkot for Israeli prime minister

On November 5, 2026, the Arab-led Joint List alliance officially announced its support for centrist opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot to form the next government of Israel. The alliance plans to formally notify President Isaac Herzog of their decision later this evening. This political move is part of a stated effort to prevent the return of outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his administration to power.

The decision follows the general elections held last week, where Arab-led parties secured a record 19 seats in the 120-member Knesset. This unprecedented electoral success grants the Joint List significant influence over the coalition-building process. By positioning themselves against Netanyahu, the alliance seeks to reshape the political landscape, setting the stage for complex negotiations with President Herzog regarding the mandate to form a government.