Israel’s Election too close to call with rival fighting to unseat Netanyahu

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc has taken an early but marginal lead in Israel’s parliamentary election, with a third of the votes counted. 

However, exit polls indicate the race hangs in the balance, as neither Mr. Netanyahu nor his main challenger, Gadi Eisenkot, has secured a clear parliamentary majority.

Revised exit polls showed Mr. Netanyahu’s right-wing camp and Mr. Eisenkot’s opposing bloc tied at 51 seats each. A winning bloc requires a minimum of 61 seats to form a majority government.

The election serves as a referendum on the country’s leadership following the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack, subsequent conflicts, and the political and security decisions that have shaped Israel since. The outcome is expected to influence the trajectory of regional military operations, relations with Palestinians, international standing, and domestic political stability.

Following projections of a neck-and-neck race, Mr. Netanyahu appealed to the electorate to back a strong right-wing government, warning against any administration reliant on Arab parties. Highlighting his government's military achievements, he argued that critical work remains unfinished.

“Iran is weaker than ever; Israel is stronger than ever,” Mr. Netanyahu said, adding that Israel possesses a “unique opportunity” alongside President Donald Trump to “remove the Iranian threat once and for all.”

Meanwhile, the opposition has disputed initial seat projections that underestimated its support. Mr. Eisenkot framed the election as Israeli society’s democratic response to the 7 October attacks and three years of conflict.

“People had not remained indifferent. They had come out to vote,” Mr. Eisenkot said, adding that citizens voted for change and that he intends to form “a government that represents the entire society.”

Arab-led parties are also projecting gains, with exit polls indicating they could secure 19 seats, marking the largest representation they have ever held in parliament.