Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced Saturday that opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot has been tapped to form the country's next government.
The decision handed current Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's chief rival the first opportunity to build a coalition following an inconclusive national election.
Herzog announced his decision on November 7, but the formal presentation of the mandate is scheduled for Sunday, November 8, at 5 p.m. Israeli time.
Eisenkot will then have 28 days to assemble a government, with a possible 14-day extension.
The decision could mark a significant step toward ending Netanyahu’s tenure. However, there is deep disagreement among parties who should replace him.
The decision comes after the Israeli president met with members of the Israeli parliament, known as the Knesset, as to who should form the new government following elections held just days ago.
Many members asked that Herzog choose Eisenkot over Netanyahu
