Herzog to task Eisenkot with forming a government

Following Israel President Isaac Herzog’s announcement at the conclusion of the round of consultations on Thursday, Nov. 5, that he would hold further conversations over the weekend, this evening (Nov. 7), Herzog informed the Leader of the Yashar party, Gadi Eisenkot, of his intention to task him with forming a government.

Herzog invited Eisenkot to the President’s Residence, where he will be tasked with forming the government Sunday, Nov. 8 at 5 p.m. (local time).

During the round of consultations, factions totaling 67 members of Knesset recommended to Herzog that Eisenkot be tasked with forming the government. Factions totaling 46 members of Knesset recommended Prime Minister and Likud Leader Benjamin Netanyahu MK, and one faction of seven members of Knesset chose not to recommend anyone.

Over the past several days, Herzog has held in-depth talks with various figures across the political system, including meetings with Netanyahu and with Eisenkot, to whom he conveyed his intention.

Once the President has tasked a member of Knesset with forming a government, that member of Knesset will have 28 days under Basic Law: The Government to form a new government. Should more time be required, the President is authorized by law to grant an extension of up to 14 additional days.

The ceremony in which Herzog will task Eisenkot with forming a government will be broadcast live.