Israel prepares for a major general election on October 27. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a strong challenge from Gadi Eisenkot.
Israel holds a general election on October 27. This vote follows the October 2023 Hamas-led attacks. Many experts consider this one of the most important elections in the nation's history.
Incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a tough challenge from Gadi Eisenkot. Eisenkot is a former military chief. He formed the Yashar Party just last year.
Also, Eisenkot served in the war cabinet under Netanyahu. He resigned in 2024 due to disagreements regarding the conflict. He now focuses his campaign on security accountability.
Other opposition leaders include Naftali Bennett and Avigdor Lieberman. Both hold hardline views on security. Yair Golan represents the left-wing, supporting a withdrawal from certain territories.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu leads a right-wing government. He relies on far-right partners to stay in power. Some of these allies propose controversial plans for Gaza and the West Bank.
Next, the voting system uses proportional representation. The Knesset has 120 seats. A party needs 61 seats to secure a majority. Coalitions are always necessary.
As a result, forming a government often takes weeks. Parties must negotiate deals and concessions after the election. Minority governments are also possible if no majority emerges.
Furthermore, security dominates the campaign discussions. Candidates criticize the failures surrounding the October 7 attacks. Netanyahu maintains his image as a security-focused leader.
Other major issues include military conscription and judicial reforms. High living costs also affect many voters. These topics influence how citizens cast their ballots.
Finally, the election outcome impacts Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. Both top camps support specific peace plans. However, they differ on settlement expansion and long-term policies.
Official results arrive on November 4. President Isaac Herzog will then ask a leader to form a coalition. This complex process can take over a month to finish.