Jerusalem:The 26th Knesset members took the constitutional oath today in the Knesset building in Jerusalem, marking the start of their legislative duties. The swearing-in ceremony began at 400 PM in the plenary hall, where elected members declared their allegiance one by one.
According to Maan News Agency, Gadi Eisenkot, head of the Yisrael party, is actively working to form a government after being tasked with the responsibility by Herzog. Concurrently, leaders of the Change bloc parties have initiated discussions with the ultra-Orthodox parties, aiming for a cooperative framework that could facilitate government formation.
The Change bloc, led by Eisenkot and Yisrael Beiteinu party leader Avigdor Lieberman, is negotiating with the Shas and United Torah Judaism parties. The discussions include a proposal for a "softened" conscription law in exchange for support from the ultra-Orthodox parties. An agreement has also been reached on the identity of the next Knesset speaker.
Naftali Bennett, head of the "Together" bloc, has agreed that Eisenkot will lead negotiations with the ultra-Orthodox, while Lieberman may conduct separate talks. Bennett's party members are expected to seek clarifications on the proposed conscription law at an upcoming faction meeting.
Current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for a national unity government, emphasizing the necessity of such a coalition and expressing his willingness to engage in dialogue with any interested party.
The day's official schedule included commemorative photos of the Knesset members, a reception for the President of the State, and the signing of the "Register of Presidents." The session concluded with speeches from the Speaker of the Knesset and the Prime Minister.