Israel Elections
- David Goldman - AP
- Updated
Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar ("Straight") party, waves an Israeli flag after speaking at a campaign rally ahead of the country's general election, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, in Tel Aviv, Israel.
David Goldman - APAs featured on
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.
