Likud leader and former-PM Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to form a coalition government by today’s deadline | Photo: BBC

Likud leader Benjamin Netanyahu’s extended deadline to form a coalition government expires today.

President Isaac Herzog granted Netanyahu a ten-day extension to form his coalition, choosing not to grant him the maximum 14-days. Netanyahu has been delayed in forming his right-wing government following his return to power. Although the Likud party—which won 64 out of 120 seats in Parliament—has signed deals with parties expected to join Netanyahu’s coalition, issues remained regarding committee assignments.

In June, political gridlock led to the collapse of the anti-Netanyahu coalition composed of eight parties, led by former Prime Minister Naftali Bennet, opening up the window for Netanyahu and the Likud party to gain control in the Knesset.

Incomplete legislation demands made by members of the Israeli Knesset, particularly in regards to Israel’s Basic Law delayed Netanyahu’s formation of Israel’s 37^th government. Despite this, Netanyahu is expected to form his new government by the deadline, as the incoming coalition has another week to complete the legislative process and pass the demanded legislation. In the short term, Ben-Gvir is expected to be appointed national security minister and Smotrich is likely to be placed charge of security coordination in the West Bank.