Israel Election 2026
Israel votes in pivotal wartime national election
What happened
Israel is holding a closely watched election shaped by the Gaza war, the legacy of the October 7 attack, and questions over Benjamin Netanyahu’s future.
Timeline
Israel Votes
Oct 27, 06:30Israelis headed to the polls in a tightly contested election shaped by the October 7 attack, the Gaza war and questions over Benjamin Netanyahu’s future. No party was expected to win a majority, setting up coalition negotiations.
Fast Early Turnout
Oct 27, 06:26Israel recorded its fastest early voter turnout in 45 years as Israelis cast ballots in the wartime election. The pace reflected intense interest in the contest over Netanyahu’s leadership and the Gaza war.
Eisenkot Emerges
Oct 25, 08:31Former Israeli army chief Gadi Eisenkot emerged as a major challenger to Netanyahu, with polls suggesting his Yashar party could win 20 to 23 seats. He campaigned on accountability for the October 7 failures and security-policy change.
Ugly Campaign Tactics
Oct 24, 12:15Reports described an increasingly hostile campaign, including AI-generated images and personal smears against candidates and bereaved families. Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot were running neck and neck in polls.
Trump Backs Netanyahu
Oct 19, 09:01Donald Trump endorsed Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the October 27 parliamentary vote, urging Israelis not to back his rivals. The endorsement underscored the election’s focus on Netanyahu’s wartime leadership and future.
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