Four scenarios for forming Israel's next government

Four possible paths are on the table for forming Israel's next government after a close Knesset election, which saw the highest turnout in decades at 77.7%.

The scenarios range from one of the two main camps reaching a 61-seat majority, to a unity government drawing on both sides, a minority government relying on outside support, or, if no coalition can be formed, a fresh election.

The high turnout reflects deep polarisation in Israeli society and voters' strong interest in the outcome of one of the most competitive elections in recent years.

Israel has held a string of repeat elections in recent years because of the difficulty of forming stable coalitions, which keeps the possibility of political deadlock in play.