Netanyahu retains powers as Eisenkot tasked with forming new Israeli government

Outgoing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to lead the government and make executive and security decisions, despite Gadi Eisenkot being tasked with forming a new government.

Hebrew media reports clarified that executive powers do not automatically transfer to Eisenkot upon his appointment, as he does not have the authority to issue orders to the military or ministries.

The caretaker government, headed by Netanyahu, retains its legal authority until the new government secures the confidence of the Knesset.

Military and security matters—including those related to Iran, Gaza, and Lebanon—remain under Netanyahu’s management, and the government retains the authority to declare war.

Netanyahu has called for the formation of a national unity government, cautioning against rushing the process.

In a video posted on his X account on Saturday, Netanyahu said Israel is facing a period that requires national unity, noting he advocated for this during the election campaign and reiterated the call afterward, describing it as the "will of the people" and a necessity for the current stage.