Netanyahu rejects coalition with Arab parties amid election tensions in Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the idea of forming a government coalition with Arab parties as a "disgrace and a shame," according to Al Jazeera English. This statement came amid exit polls indicating that neither Netanyahu's party nor the opposition is projected to win the 61 seats needed for a majority in the Knesset.

Arab-led political groups in Israel have accused Netanyahu of inciting hatred against Palestinian citizens to influence the elections. Leaders from the Joint List and United Arab List criticized Netanyahu's comments as attempts to scare voters and mobilize right-wing support.

Netanyahu posted on social media accusing Arab voters of "raiding the polling stations and stealing the elections," and urged right-wing Israelis to vote for his Likud party, framing the election as a critical matter. The Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel reported issues at polling stations in Arab-majority towns, including slow queues and a shortage of Arabic ballot slips.

The rights group reported these concerns to Israel's election authorities. Palestinian politicians praised the participation of Palestinian citizens in the elections, viewing the turnout as encouraging despite the tensions.

The election results and coalition talks remain uncertain, with neither major side expected to secure a clear majority, setting the stage for continued political negotiations.