Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Nov 6: Israel's President Isaac Herzog has announced that he will nominate a candidate on Sunday to form the next government, following the inconclusive election results that have left the country facing a political deadlock.

In a video statement after the second round of consultations with Knesset factions at his residence on Thursday, Herzog said he would make every effort to ensure the formation of a stable government.

Describing the consultations as open, candid and probing, he said he had raised difficult questions with political parties to help them and the public assess the situation.

Herzog said former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief Gadi Eisenkot, who leads the Yashar party, had received recommendations from 67 members of the Knesset to form the government.

Incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who heads the Likud party, received the support of 48 lawmakers.

Although the consultation results appeared to indicate a clear preference, Herzog said the final decision rested with him under the law. He pointed to mutual vetoes between and within political blocs, making it difficult to determine who could successfully form a government.

He said he would hold direct discussions with some party leaders to reach a decision quickly.

The October 27 elections failed to produce a clear majority in Israel's 120-member Knesset. The Netanyahu-led coalition secured 53 seats, while Eisenkot's centrist-left alliance won 48 seats. Arab parties secured the remaining 19 seats, placing them in a crucial position in government formation.

The Arab parties had earlier indicated their willingness to support Eisenkot in an effort to end Netanyahu's rule, describing his administration as a "criminal government".

With recommendations from 67 lawmakers, Eisenkot has emerged as a strong contender to lead the next government.

Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, has criticised the possibility of Eisenkot forming a government with the support of Arab parties. He has also alleged that foreign powers financed Eisenkot's election campaign, but has not provided evidence to substantiate the claim.