What powers does Netanyahu have as Israel’s interim PM?

What the report says

Al Jazeera reports that Benjamin Netanyahu remains Israel’s caretaker prime minister after the country’s latest election produced another hung parliament. Two weeks after the vote, President Isaac Herzog gave opposition figure Gadi Eisenkot a chance to assemble a governing coalition, but neither side has reached the 61-seat threshold needed for a Knesset majority. If Eisenkot fails, Herzog could still turn back to Netanyahu.

The article explains that under Israel’s Basic Laws, an outgoing government continues to function until a new cabinet is sworn in. That means Netanyahu’s interim administration still controls day-to-day state business, security policy and foreign relations, though it is expected to act with restraint. As caretaker premier, he can make appointments and security-related decisions, and the Shin Bet internal security service still reports to him.

At the same time, Al Jazeera notes that his powers are not unlimited. He cannot launch a new war on his own; such a decision would require cabinet approval. Domestic and legislative action is also constrained, although financial choices he makes could shape the position of whoever forms the next government. Analysts cited by the outlet said Netanyahu may use the transition period to pressure rivals, shape intelligence briefings and try to divide the opposition bloc.

The piece places Israel’s situation in a wider parliamentary context, saying caretaker governments in countries such as the UK and India also retain formal authority, but are normally expected to avoid major decisions.