Millions of Israelis participated in a closely contested national election held on Tuesday, marking the first general vote since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and with Iran. The election saw a record turnout, with nearly 1.2 million voters casting ballots by mid-morning, representing a significant increase compared to previous elections. Early reports indicated that approximately 30% of active-duty soldiers had voted, while about 70,000 Israelis reportedly flew home to participate amid heightened security measures.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving leader who has held office intermittently since 1996, sought to maintain his position amidst growing domestic and international criticism. Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud party, along with its hard-right coalition partners, faced scrutiny over security failures linked to the Hamas attacks and the ongoing military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in substantial casualties. The prime minister, who has been embroiled in longstanding corruption charges he denies, emphasized his security credentials and received public support from former U.S. President Donald Trump during the campaign. Netanyahu urged his supporters to turn out in large numbers, warning that opposition groups and Arab Israeli voters were mobilizing strongly.

Challenging Netanyahu was Gadi Eisenkot, a former Chief of Staff of the Israeli Defense Forces who rose to prominence as a hawkish but centrist alternative. Eisenkot, 66, who lost close family members in the Gaza conflict, entered politics four years ago and briefly served in Netanyahu’s emergency wartime cabinet before resigning, citing disagreement over the handling of the war and hostage situations. He campaigned on promises of political change, criticism of Netanyahu’s leadership, and a commitment to security.

Preliminary exit polls indicated a stalemate with neither Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition nor Eisenkot’s diverse opposition bloc securing a clear majority in the 120-seat Knesset, where 61 seats are required to form a government. The electoral system’s proportional representation and relatively low entry threshold have historically necessitated coalition-building among multiple parties. Smaller factions, including Arab Israeli parties, hold the potential to become kingmakers in the coalition negotiations. Arab voter turnout appeared particularly high, driven by dissatisfaction over government policies and domestic issues such as crime.

The election results are expected to take several days to finalize given the complex vote-counting process and the need for coalition talks. President Isaac Herzog will initiate consultations to task a candidate, likely the leader of the largest faction, with forming a government, allowing weeks or months of negotiations. Analysts noted the possibility of extended political deadlock or even another election if no coalition emerges.

This election is widely viewed as a critical juncture for Israel, reflecting deep divisions over national security, governance, and the country’s future direction amidst ongoing regional tensions. The outcomes will have significant implications for Israel’s domestic policy and its approach to the continuing conflicts in Gaza and with Iran.