In an election hailed as a significant turning point in his country’s history, Benjamin Netanyahu secured the support of an unexpectedly large majority of Israeli Jews, thus guaranteeing his survival as prime minister, at least in a caretaker capacity.
Israel’s three major networks stated that, with about 86% of the ballots counted on Wednesday morning, Netanyahu’s coalition of right-wing, far-right, and ultra-Orthodox parties was expected to win 53 seats in parliament, far ahead of competitor Gadi Eisenkot’s opposition bloc’s 48.
Quick Fact
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| What Happened | Israel held a closely contested national election |
| Location | Israel |
| Election Date | October 27, 2026 |
| Main Candidates | Benjamin Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot |
| Voter Turnout | 77.7 percent |
| Parliament Seats | 120 seats |
| Majority Required | 61 seats |
| Current Status | Coalition negotiations may follow the final results |
| Why It Matters | The results could shape Israel's government and regional policies |
Netanyahu Secures Strong Electoral Support
Speaking to supporters of his Likud party at the party’s election headquarters in Jerusalem around three in the morning (0100 GMT), Netanyahu demanded the establishment of “a strong, right-wing national government”.
Along with highlighting Israel’s military achievements, Netanyahu brought up the possibility of resuming coordinated military action against Iran with his partner, US President Donald Trump.
Together with our ally President Trump, Israel has a once-in-a-lifetime chance to permanently eliminate Iran’s deadly danger.
However, we must not be distracted from our holy duty by hidden agendas,” he stated.
Trump Comments on Election Tie as Israeli Markets Fall
It might be a draw or a victory. At a campaign appearance in Texas early on Wednesday, Trump stated, “The tie is sort of considered a win in that case because it’s a big chess match.”
Israel’s financial markets were affected by the possibility of a caretaker administration without a legislative majority. At 3.10 to the US dollar, the shekel lost almost 1.6% of its value.
Key benchmark stock indices for Tel Aviv dropped by almost 3%. (.TA35), opens new tab; (.TA125), opens new tab.
While acknowledging that Netanyahu remained in office as a caretaker, Eisenkot said that the public no longer supported the prime minister.
Eisenkot Questions Netanyahu’s Political Legitimacy
“I call on the heads of the security establishment and the civil service: Netanyahu is a caretaker prime minister, without a mandate or the people’s trust,” he stated.Keep in mind that you solely represent the interests of the state and the people of Israel. When someone tries to confront you, don’t back down,” he said. “Netanyahu, do not dare use Israel’s security for your political needs.”
The election was Israel’s first since 1,200 people were killed and 251 hostages were taken by Hamas-led fighters in strikes that destroyed the nation’s feeling of security and sent it into conflict in Gaza.
Netanyahu’s Influence Reshapes Israeli Politics
Netanyahu has led a huge shift in Israeli politics as the country’s most prominent political figure, as seen by the majority of Israeli Jews’ unwavering support for him.
His unapologetic Jewish nationalism, support for settlement on Palestinian land under occupation, and contempt for criticism from outside Israel have become the standard in Israel.
The center-left, which led negotiations to split Israel from the Palestinian territories and controlled Israel for the first half of its history, is now a very small minority.
Israel Election Draws Record Voter Turnout
Both Netanyahu’s fans and detractors viewed Tuesday’s election as a pivotal moment for the country, resulting in the highest participation in over 20 years at 77.7%.
Israelis of Palestinian heritage, who comprise over 25% of the population but whose representatives have traditionally been left out of the government, had an especially high turnout.
Many were inspired by what they see to be overt bigotry on the part of Netanyahu’s cabinet, which includes a party leader found guilty of inciting racial hatred against Arabs.
When they left, the Joint List headquarters, an alliance of numerous Arab parties, erupted in cheers and whistles.
