Israeli opposition leader Yair Golan has met Arab political leader Mansour Abbas as efforts intensify to form an alternative government following Israel’s parliamentary elections.
Golan, who leads the Democrats party, confirmed the meeting on Thursday, October 29, 2026. He said discussions focused on replacing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.
The meeting followed election results that left Netanyahu’s political alliance without a parliamentary majority.
Israeli Opposition Seeks New Government
Golan shared a photograph of his meeting with Abbas, leader of the United Arab List, also known as Ra’am.
He emphasized the need for opposition parties to cooperate and establish a new governing coalition.
However, Abbas had not publicly commented on the discussions by Thursday evening.
Golan also reportedly met Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot and opposition leader Yair Lapid to discuss political coordination.
Netanyahu Bloc Falls Short of Majority
According to Israeli public broadcaster KAN, Netanyahu’s alliance secured 53 seats in the 120-member parliament.
The opposition Change bloc won 48 seats, while Arab parties secured 19.
A governing coalition requires at least 61 seats.
Ra’am won eight seats, while the Joint List obtained 11.
Together, opposition and Arab parties hold 67 seats, although they have not agreed to form a coalition.
Arab Parties Could Influence Government Formation
Golan supports cooperation with Arab political parties to establish an alternative government.
However, Yisrael Beiteinu leader Avigdor Lieberman opposes including Arab parties in a coalition.
These disagreements could complicate negotiations.
Final election results are expected after verification procedures conclude next Wednesday.
Until then, opposition leaders face the challenge of securing enough parliamentary support to form a government.
