Israel's election chief rebukes Benjamin Netanyahu over his 'stolen' vote claims and confirms the result will not be overturned

Israel's election chief publicly rebuked Benjamin Netanyahu, declaring his claims of a "stolen" election baseless and confirming the result stands. Netanyahu, who lost to a centrist coalition led by rival Gadi Eisenkot, has refused to concede and is simultaneously exploring coalition options to remain in power.

Eisenkot and Netanyahu are both manoeuvring to form a governing coalition, with Netanyahu refusing to rule out a unity government.

Voter data from the election reveals a significant shift in the Israeli electorate, with security and judicial reform fatigue driving the result against Netanyahu's bloc.

The Washington Times has called for a full investigation into the fraud allegations, giving Netanyahu's camp a measure of international cover despite the poll chief's rebuttal.