Arab parties could give Israel's leaders a path to a majority, but none wants to take it

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Israel's election leaves no clear winner as Arab parties hold the key to a majority

On Wednesday, final results reported by one outlet showed Netanyahu's far-right coalition losing its mandate, with the opposition holding a majority of seats. Most Jewish opposition parties rule out governing with Arab-led parties, which could let Netanyahu stay in office. Partial results with 85% counted had Likud and its allies on 53 of 120 seats. Official results are due on November 4, and Netanyahu would remain caretaker prime minister in the meantime.

• Netanyahu called a coalition with Arab parties 'a disgrace and a shame'; Balad's leader called the opposition's refusal to ally with Arab parties racist.
• Exit polls projected up to 18 seats for the Arab bloc, amid record turnout.
• Experts say a caretaker Netanyahu would face more constraints but could keep significant powers, including authority to wage war against Iran.
• One analysis says the most likely outcome may be new elections; President Herzog must choose who tries to form a government.