Key facts
- Netanyahu expected to face constraints as caretaker prime minister.
- Experts say caretaker government could still wage war on Iran.
- No party projected to win a majority in the 120-seat legislature.
- Caretaker governments have duty of restraint but exceptions for security issues.
- Supreme court historically avoids intervening in decisions to go to war.
Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to face more constraints as Israel's caretaker prime minister following Tuesday's election, though experts suggest his government could still retain significant powers, including the ability to wage war on Iran. Israeli media forecasts indicate neither Netanyahu's right-wing coalition nor the opposition bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot will secure a majority in the 120-seat legislature. Netanyahu's office has previously denied using the Iran conflict for political gain. Analysts note that while caretaker governments have a duty of restraint, security issues are a key exception, and the Supreme Court has historically refrained from intervening in decisions regarding war.