Israel's 26th Knesset sworn in amid ongoing political deadlock

The 26th Knesset of Israel was sworn in on November 10, 2026, following the October 27 elections that deprived outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies of a parliamentary majority. Although Gadi Eizenkot has been tasked with forming a new government, no coalition has yet been established. President Isaac Herzog addressed the assembly, urging lawmakers to prioritize national stability and engage in compromises to prevent the need for repeat elections.

Opposition leaders, led by Eizenkot, are already exerting their influence in the parliament. Eizenkot’s camp, supported by various political factions, has introduced legislation aimed at establishing a state commission of inquiry into the security failures surrounding the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. Other proposed bills include term limits for prime ministers and the reversal of judicial reforms implemented by the previous government. Netanyahu remains in a caretaker role and continues to forcefully oppose the participation of Arab parties in any governing coalition, labeling them as supporters of terrorism. Tensions peaked during the inauguration, with Netanyahu’s rhetoric causing some lawmakers to walk out of the chamber. Eizenkot has committed to forming an emergency national government as quickly as possible while navigating complex negotiations to bridge ideological divides among various parties.