The race to form a government begins: the timetable and scenarios

In depth

After the official results are published, which will be certified by Justice Noam Sohlberg next week, President Isaac Herzog will open a round of consultations with representatives of the factions. According to Channel 14 News, within seven days of these consultations the President will assign the mandate to form a government to one of the Knesset members, and the candidate will be given 28 days, with the option of an extension of up to 14 days.

According to Haaretz, the President is not obligated to assign the mandate to the leader of the largest faction or to the head of the bloc. According to Channel 14 News, if a second candidate also fails, a majority of Knesset members can themselves choose who will form the government.