Israel Elections
Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar ("Straight") party and his wife, Hannah, arrive at a polling station to cast their ballot during Israel's general election in Herzliya, Israel, Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026.
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Israelis are voting in a pivotal election as the country grapples with unfinished wars and divisions over its future. There is high turnout. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voted just after midday. He faces a strong challenge from former military chief Gadi Eisenkot. Polls show neither candidate's party is likely to gain enough support for a parliamentary majority, leading to possibly 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.
