Israel President Isaac Herzog has officially tasked Gadi Eisenkot with forming a government, DW reports.
Eisenkot, the head of the centrist Yashar party, will have 28 days to secure a coalition to replace current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's religious-nationalist government, with Herzog having the authority to prolong Eisenkot's mandate by 14 days.
"The conversations with the different parties were open and transparent, while also resurfacing the many voices in Israeli society. They reminded us the fact that all Israeli citizens have an equal voice, from all parts of society," Herzog said.
He stressed that Eisenkot received the clearest support from the majority of Knesset members when it comes to the question of forming the next government.
"The challenges we face are giant. Iran is not waiting a second in its threats. We have to start building a future in the region and proceed with Trump's 20-point plan in Gaza, as well as negotiating the future with Lebanon and other neighbors," the Israeli president said, adding that "Israel needs a stable government that faces these challenges."
Herzog said that he expected Eisenkot to do his best to form a government that would serve all parts of the Israeli people.
In turn, Eisenkot stressed that he is committed to establishing a national emergency government.
"We do not have the privilege of endless rounds of elections. I will send an official approach to all of the Knesset's members, as parties and individuals, for talks," he added.
Eisenkot also addressed Knesset members. "The public looks up to us... We are in the most complicated political situation since Israel's establishment," he said.
