Israeli president to open consultations on next government after tight election

President Isaac Herzog said he will hold consultations next week with parliamentary blocs to select a candidate to form Israel's next government.

• Herzog announced he will invite representatives of parliamentary blocs to consultations next week after receiving the official election results.
• Herzog called on bloc representatives to approach the talks with open minds and work to prevent another round of elections.
• Herzog will receive the official results next week from Judge Solberg before beginning his consultations.
• The candidate tasked with forming the government receives 28 days to build a coalition, with a possible 14-day extension.