CRS Report on Israel, 2026 Elections and Government Formation

The Government Accountability Office report examined changes to Israel’s government following the October 27, 2026, Knesset elections. These changes could affect the country’s future direction and relations with the United States. The Likud party won the most seats, but neither bloc had a clear majority to form a government.

Election Uncertainty and Power Sharing

Uncertainty about election results could lead to a power-sharing arrangement. Netanyahu could use renewed U.S.-Israel military action against Iran to pressure rivals into a unity government. Eisenkot’s bloc had influence in power-sharing talks due to potential legislation limiting Netanyahu’s time as prime minister after another election. Before the election, Eisenkot rejected a deal allowing Netanyahu to remain prime minister. The parties in Eisenkot’s bloc considered partnering with the Arab-led Ra’am party for a minority government. Eisenkot reportedly required Ra’am to recognize Hamas as a terrorist organization.

Future of U.S.-Israel Relations

It was unclear how a new government would change Israeli policies regarding U.S.-Israel relations. Netanyahu’s opponents did not state a clear alternative to Israel’s post-October 2023 policies. A change in the Israeli government could reportedly reverse or check some policies concerning the West Bank. Eisenkot sought an inquiry into October 2023 attacks and changes to laws affecting the judicial system. Some members of the 119th Congress opposed military sales to Israel and proposed sanctions targeting Israeli settlement construction.

Israel Policy Affects Aid

Debate about Israel’s actions after October 2023 affects congressional review of U.S. military aid. Changes to the Netanyahu government’s policies could influence scrutiny of defense assistance. Israeli governments must balance domestic security needs and resource limits. They also consider U.S. and international goals in the Middle East. These goals include stability, trade ties, human rights concerns, and proposed changes in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and Syria.

The report, Israel: 2026 Elections and Government Formation (IN12751), by Jim Zanotti, is dated October 30, 2026. Read it on Congress.gov.