Israeli opposition leader and former army chief Gadi Eisenkot has secured the support of 67 members of parliament, strengthening his position in the race to become the country’s next prime minister.
Lawmakers from six political parties have backed Eisenkot, including 19 members from two Arab parties.
The support has intensified political manoeuvring over the country’s leadership and placed Eisenkot in a strong position ahead of the next stage of the government formation process.
Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, has 120 members. Current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly has the support of 46 lawmakers, compared with 67 backing Eisenkot.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog is expected to announce his decision on the nomination of the next prime minister on Sunday.
The announcement is expected to clarify the next steps in the political process and the prospects for forming a new government.
