Israeli elections : Bibi set to return as voters say no 'trial and error' prime minister

Benjamin Netanyahu is set to become Israel's longest-serving Prime Minister

Simply because he had no political experience, some Israeli citizens cruelly concluded that Benny Gantz would be a 'trial and error' prime minister if he is voted into power. However, retired general Gantz's party, the Blue and White political alliance, seems to have defied the cynics by winning at least 35 seats, same as the prime minister's party, Likud.

Neither candidate has been able to win a clear majority, so it will be the job of Israel’s president, Reuven Rivlin, to see which party has the best chance of forming a coalition government.



Retired general Benny Gantz

Netanyahu's party and their likely allies walked away from the vote with 65 seats, compared to 45 for rival Benny Gantz's party and their allies. Two Arab parties picked up a total of 10 seats.

The result has thus put Netanyahu in prime position to form the next government.

The prime minister celebrated in front of supporters along with wife Sarah

Mr Netanyahu told supporters excitedly, 'It's a night of tremendous victory. I was very moved that the nation of Israel once again entrusted me for the fifth time, and with an even greater trust.' He added that he had already begun talking to fellow right-wing and religious parties about forming a new coalition.