APTOPIX Israel Elections
Voters cast their ballots at a polling station during Israel's general election in Jerusalem Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026.
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Israelis are voting in a national election widely seen as a referendum on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership. Tuesday's vote is the first since Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent wars in the Middle East. Israelis vote for parties, which then form alliances to create a majority coalition. No single party has ever won a 61-seat majority in the 120-member parliament. Netanyahu’s legacy is also on the line. A poor showing could end his lengthy career, while a victory would cement his image as a political survivor. Opinion polls suggest a tight race, with no clear winner expected.
Israelis are voting in a pivotal election as the country grapples with unfinished wars and divisions over its future. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a strong challenge from former military chief Gadi Eisenkot. Polls show neither candidate's party is likely to garner enough support for a parliamentary majority, leading to possible weeks of negotiations over forming a winning coalition. The election is Israel's first national vote since the Oct. 7 attacks and serves as a referendum on Netanyahu's leadership. The outcome could shape Israel's identity as either more nationalist and religious or liberal democratic.
