Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men look at a screen displaying voter turnout in their community during Israel's general election in Jerusalem. (Photo: AP)

Israel’s election has left Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his challenger, former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, facing a political deadlock, with exit polls showing neither bloc securing the 61 seats needed for a majority in the 120-member Knesset. Updated projections from Channels 11 and 13 put both camps at 51 seats each, while Channel 12 gives Netanyahu’s bloc a narrow lead with 52 seats. Likud is projected to remain the largest individual party, but its position may not be enough to secure another term for Netanyahu. Arab-led parties, projected to win around 16-18 seats, could emerge as crucial players in coalition negotiations. Both leaders have claimed political legitimacy, with Eisenkot arguing that voters have rejected Netanyahu’s leadership, while the prime minister has called for a right-wing government.…