Israel is gearing up for its general elections scheduled for October 27, 2026, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing increasing scrutiny and a strong challenge from former IDF chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot.
Why it matters: The upcoming elections are seen as a watershed moment for Israeli democracy, with fundamental questions about governance and the state’s identity at the forefront. Polls indicate a shift in public sentiment, particularly against Netanyahu’s long-standing rule.
The elections come after a tumultuous period marked by security crises and political instability, particularly following the October 7, 2023, attacks that resulted in 1,139 deaths.
Voter concerns include the far-right coalition's attempts to undermine democratic norms and the controversial exemption of ultra-Orthodox citizens from military service.
Palestinian citizens of Israel, who hope for representation, face a political environment where their voices are largely sidelined.
Driving the news: Netanyahu's Likud party recently launched a provocative campaign ad featuring New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani alongside leaders of Israel’s adversaries, claiming, "They want Netanyahu to lose." This move is part of a strategy to rally support by painting opponents as aligned with Israel’s wartime enemies.
The ad reflects the heightened tensions within Israeli politics as Netanyahu seeks to consolidate his power ahead of the elections.
Amidst allegations of corruption and calls for accountability over the October 7 security failures, Netanyahu's leadership is increasingly questioned.
Internal strife within the Likud party, including a failed coup attempt against Netanyahu led by Economy Minister Nir Barkat, adds to the instability surrounding his candidacy.
State of play: Gadi Eisenkot, leading the centrist Yashar party, is currently ahead in polls, presenting a fresh alternative to Netanyahu. His background as the son of Moroccan immigrants and a former military leader resonates with many voters seeking change.
Eisenkot’s campaign focuses on his personal story, positioning himself as a candidate against corruption and for effective governance.
He has taken a moderate stance on the Palestinian issue, advocating for a Palestinian-run Gaza free from Hamas, but avoids discussing a two-state solution.
His Mizrachi heritage contrasts sharply with Netanyahu’s Ashkenazi background, appealing to voters disillusioned with traditional political elites.
The big picture: The political climate in Israel is fraught with division, particularly surrounding the treatment of Palestinian citizens and the ultra-Orthodox community’s military service exemptions. These issues have become central to the electoral discourse.
Calls for an inquiry into Netanyahu's handling of the October 7 attacks dominate public sentiment, overshadowing discussions on the Palestinian issue.
Many Israelis express frustration with the current government’s approach to violence and lawlessness, particularly in Palestinian neighborhoods.
Palestinian citizens of Israel, feeling increasingly marginalized, are left hoping for a coalition that can address their concerns.
What they're saying: Analysts and sociologists highlight a growing desire among voters for accountability and change in leadership.
"There’s a large number of people who just want to get rid of Netanyahu," sociologist Yehouda Shenhav-Shahrabani told Al Jazeera.
Social-political psychologist Daniel Bar-Tal emphasized the need for voters to confront the erosion of democratic norms under Netanyahu’s administration.
Crisis Group's Mairav Zonszein pointed out that the Palestinian issue has been largely sidelined in favor of domestic concerns, a shift that reflects the current political climate.
By the numbers: The electoral stakes are underscored by stark statistics and events affecting Israeli society.
Since the October 7 attacks, over 73,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed, highlighting the humanitarian crisis often overlooked in Israeli political discussions.
This year alone, 158 Palestinian citizens of Israel have been murdered, raising alarms about violence in Arab communities.
Polling data shows Eisenkot leading Netanyahu, indicating a potential shift in power dynamics within the Knesset.
What's next: As the elections approach, the political atmosphere is charged with uncertainty and potential for change.
Netanyahu’s ability to maintain control over his party and navigate internal dissent will be tested as the election date nears.
Eisenkot’s campaign strategy will likely focus on solidifying his lead and appealing to undecided voters who are weary of Netanyahu’s tenure.
Expectations are high for post-election negotiations, where coalition-building will be key to forming a government, regardless of who wins.
On October 27, voters will make their choice, but the aftermath of the election may trigger intense negotiations and political maneuvering as parties vie for power.