Israel’s Arab political parties are poised to play a critical role in determining the composition of the next Knesset following a tightly contested election held earlier this week. Representing approximately 20 percent of the country’s population, these parties are expected to hold the balance of power in what analysts describe as one of the most consequential elections in Israel’s history.

The election comes amid ongoing tensions between Jewish and Arab citizens, an issue that remains central to the country’s political landscape. However, topics directly affecting Arab communities, such as rising crime rates, have received limited attention during the campaign. The broader implications of these elections may extend beyond individual policy debates, potentially shaping the future trajectory of Israeli politics after a period marked by repeated elections over the past four years.

At the center of the political contest is Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, who seeks to maintain his hold on power. Netanyahu’s Likud party heads a right-leaning bloc that includes religious Ultra-Orthodox factions. His main challenger is Gadi Eisenkot, a former chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces and leader of the centrist Yashar party. Eisenkot, once appointed by Netanyahu himself to lead the military in 2014, entered politics only recently but has quickly emerged as a formidable opponent.

The rivalry between Netanyahu and Eisenkot has been further intensified by recent events surrounding the conflict in Gaza. Eisenkot resigned from a national unity government formed after the October 7 attacks, accusing Netanyahu of prolonging the war and jeopardizing hostages held in Gaza. His personal losses in the conflict—his youngest son Gal and two nephews were killed in Gaza—have added a poignant dimension to his public profile. At his son’s funeral, Eisenkot notably broke down in tears, symbolizing the deep grief shared by many Israelis according to observers.

Israel’s electoral system, based on proportional representation, often requires coalition building among diverse parties. This election is no exception, with two primary blocs emerging: one, led by Netanyahu, is a coalition of right-wing and religious parties, while the other is a more fragmented secular alliance spanning a wide ideological spectrum from right to left. Arab parties, despite being viewed with skepticism by some Israeli leaders, may soon become indispensable in government formation.

The election marks the beginning of a prolonged political process, the outcome of which could redefine Israel’s domestic and regional policies. How Arab parties will leverage their potential kingmaker status remains to be seen, but their influence is set to increase amid a deeply divided electorate and a changing political environment.