Israel to hold general elections on October 27, 2026

Israel is scheduled to hold general elections on October 27, 2026. The vote follows a period of significant instability, including the Hamas attacks three years ago and ongoing conflicts in Gaza and involving Iran.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, leader of the Likud party, seeks to secure another term despite a declining party and an unpopular cabinet formed by alliances with religious and far-right factions. His main challengers include Gadi Eisenkot, a military figure whose party is currently leading in polls, and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.

The political landscape is marked by deep fragmentation, with no single party expected to control the 120-seat Knesset. The elections also highlight long-standing tensions regarding the status of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, who remain without Israeli citizenship or voting rights despite living under Israeli control. Current coalition ministers have advocated for policies including the resettlement of Gaza and the expulsion of Palestinians.