No clear mandate projected in Israel election: What’s next?
Israel's recent election results are not projecting a clear mandate for any single party to form a government. This means that the process of selecting a candidate to lead the formation of a new government will be complex.
President Isaac Herzog will task the candidate he deems best placed to form a government once results are in.
Background
Following an election, Israel's President typically tasks a political leader with forming a coalition government. This process can be challenging if no party achieves a decisive majority in the Knesset, the Israeli parliament. The President's decision on who to task is based on their assessment of which candidate has the best chance of building a stable governing coalition.
Why it matters
The absence of a clear electoral mandate signifies potential political instability and prolonged coalition negotiations. This uncertainty can affect the country's policy direction and international relations.
Possible impact
Markets and investors may react to the prolonged period of political uncertainty, potentially leading to increased volatility. The formation of a new government could also signal shifts in domestic and foreign policy, impacting regional dynamics.