Key facts
- Gadi Eisenkot, a former IDF chief, is challenging Benjamin Netanyahu for prime minister.
- The election follows the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks.
- Israel's parliament, the Knesset, has 120 seats; 61 are needed for a majority.
- The election uses a proportional representation system, often leading to coalition governments.
- Key issues include security failures, military conscription, judicial reform, and cost of living.
Israel's general election is set for Tuesday, October 27, marking the first vote since the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attacks and subsequent regional conflicts. The election is viewed as pivotal with significant global implications. Current polling indicates a close contest for prime minister between incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot, a former head of the Israel Defense Forces. Eisenkot, who formed his Yashar Party last year, has gained popularity due to his military background and calls for accountability regarding the security failures leading to the October 7 attacks. Other opposition figures include former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Avigdor Lieberman, both right-wingers, and left-winger Yair Golan, who could potentially form a coalition with Eisenkot. Netanyahu's current government is the most right-wing in Israel's history, and he may need support from far-right coalition partners who hold ultra-nationalist views. Arab party blocs are also participating, but most leading Jewish parties have ruled out working with them. The election uses a proportional representation system for the 120-seat Knesset, typically resulting in coalition governments that can take weeks or months to form. Security failures related to the October 7 attacks, military conscription, judicial reform, and the cost of living are the dominant issues. For Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, the outcome of the election is a major factor, with both leading camps holding similar stances on Gaza but differing on West Bank settlements and peace prospects.