Netanyahu calls for unity government excluding Arab parties to counter Iranian threats

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for the formation of a national unity government in a video statement on November 15, 2026. The proposed government would consist of Jewish-majority parties ranging from the far-right to the center while specifically excluding Arab parties. Netanyahu argued that a government relying on Arab parties cannot address the ongoing Iranian threat.

Security and Iranian threats

During his statement, Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Iran is working to revive its nuclear program and intends to use an atomic bomb against Israel. The Prime Minister stated that two military operations against Iran in the past two years averted the immediate danger of the destruction of Israel. To address these security issues and matters regarding military conscription, Benjamin Netanyahu proposed negotiations without preconditions.

The political landscape in Israel remains without a clear majority following the elections held on October 27, 2026. President Isaac Herzog has mandated Gadi Eisenkot to form the next Israeli government. Gadi Eisenkot has 28 days to complete this task, though this period can potentially be extended by an additional 14 days.

Political negotiations and opposition

Gadi Eisenkot has rejected the proposal for negotiations made by Benjamin Netanyahu, characterizing the offer as a political trick and manipulation. While Gadi Eisenkot expressed openness to cooperation with the Likud party, he excluded the possibility of direct cooperation with Benjamin Netanyahu himself. Negotiations between the Likud and Yisrael BeTinua (Jašar) teams were scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 15, 2026.

Gadi Eisenkot currently has the support of 67 members of the 120-seat Knesset. This support includes representatives from Arab parties, which collectively hold 19 seats in the Knesset. The current political tension follows a period of significant domestic scrutiny regarding the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel and various judicial reform laws.

Inquiry and future governance

Gadi Eisenkot intends to seek a state commission of inquiry regarding the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel and the judicial reform laws. This move follows a meeting held between Benjamin Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot on Thursday, November 13, 2026, to discuss the current security situation.

The formation of a national unity government in Israel has historically involved a rotation of the Prime Minister post. However, the current proposal by Benjamin Netanyahu focuses on a coalition of Jewish-majority parties to address external threats. The outcome of the current negotiations will determine whether Gadi Eisenkot can successfully assemble a majority within the allotted timeframe.

Glossary

• Likud — Likud is a political party. It is a party that has held the office of prime minister.
• national unity government — A national unity government is a government formed through negotiations between different political parties. Historically, its formation has involved a rotation of the Prime Minister post.
• military conscription — Military conscription is a system of mandatory military service. It can result in many people remaining in villages if there is a high level of conscription.
• Arab parties — Arab parties are political organizations that primarily represent Arab-Israeli and Palestinian interests. In Israel, they typically do not join governing coalitions.