Israelis vote in record numbers in first post-October 7 election
Israelis turned out in record numbers for the country's first election since October 2023, framing a tight race over Benjamin Netanyahu's political future.
Israelis voted in record numbers on Tuesday in the country's first parliamentary election since the October 7, 2023 attacks. According to the Central Elections Committee, voter turnout reached historic highs, with nearly 45 percent of eligible voters casting ballots by mid-afternoon.
The election is widely viewed as a pivotal vote on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership following subsequent conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran. As supporters gathered near polling stations where Netanyahu voted, early figures and commentary highlighted a tightly contested race. Former Israeli ambassador to the United States Michael Oren noted that an opposition bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot held a narrow edge in early counts. However, Oren cautioned that failing to secure a 61-seat majority could trigger another election, potentially leaving Netanyahu in power during prolonged negotiations.
Sources: Bloomberg, Cyprus Mail, Daily Sabah, France24.