Election Results in Israel Remain Uncertain: 500,000 Absentee Ballots Being Counted

Following the general elections held in Israel on Tuesday, the counting of approximately 500,000 absentee ballots cast by voters who could not go to the polls has begun. As the counting of these votes, which could directly affect the election results, continues, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition and Gadi Eisenkot's opposition bloc have not yet secured the 61-seat majority required to form a government in parliament.

An uncertain period has begun in Israeli politics due to the lack of clear election results. Speaking at his party's headquarters in Tel Aviv, Gadi Eisenkot stated that voters had cast their ballots in favor of change, while Prime Minister Netanyahu, speaking in Jerusalem, noted that his party maintained its position as the largest group in parliament. It is assessed that Arab parties could play a key role in the formation of the government.

President Isaac Herzog emphasized in a statement on Wednesday that every effort must be made to avoid entering a new election process. Analysts predict that the current situation could lead to long-term coalition negotiations, the formation of a unity government, or a return to the polls.