Partial results released as vote counting continued showed Likud and its allies on course for 53 seats in the 120-member Knesset, with about 85% of ballots processed.
What the numbers mean
The projection leaves the right-leaning bloc well short of the 61 seats required to command a parliamentary majority. That shortfall means the bloc will need to win over additional parties or lawmakers to form a government, a process that typically involves coalition negotiations and policy compromises.
Remaining count and uncertainty
With roughly 15% of ballots still to be counted, the final allocation of seats could shift. Election authorities and party officials cautioned that late-counted votes can alter close races, so the situation remains fluid until the full tally is certified.
Political implications
A result that does not deliver an outright majority for the leading bloc sets the stage for post-election talks that could last days or weeks. Smaller parties often become pivotal in such circumstances, and the outcome will depend on which partners can be persuaded to join a coalition. The projected figures mark only a partial picture of the likely make-up of Israel's next government.