Israeli president warns against repeat election in new Knesset session

What the report says

Israeli President Isaac Herzog used the opening of the new Knesset session in Jerusalem to press lawmakers to investigate the Hamas-led attacks of October 7 and to avoid another round of elections, according to Al Jazeera. He told party leaders to make concessions as Israel’s post-election politics remained unsettled, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc falling short of a majority.

Herzog also formally asked opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot to try to form the next government, giving him 28 days with the possibility of a 14-day extension. Al Jazeera reported that Eisenkot and his allies are aiming to build a coalition and have signaled support for an independent inquiry into the October 7 attacks. Netanyahu has previously resisted creating such a commission, arguing it would be biased if appointed by the Supreme Court.

The article said the 26th Knesset was sworn in on Tuesday as political deadlock continued after the October 27 elections. Netanyahu’s camp has challenged the result, alleging foreign interference, while authorities have dismissed claims of widespread violations. If neither Eisenkot nor Netanyahu can assemble the required majority, Israel could face yet another election. Herzog also urged stronger ties with the United States and called for preserving and expanding regional peace agreements.