Israel Election 2026: The parties, blocs and battles that will shape Israel's future - explainer

As the October 27 election draws nearer, Israel's already fast-paced political landscape continues to accelerate with a mix of established and new political players. This election marks the first since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, and voters are focusing on issues such as the IDF's manpower shortage, contentious haredi (ultra-Orthodox) conscription legislation, and calls for a state commission of inquiry into the government's handling of the attack.

Traditional election issues, like establishing a Palestinian state, have receded in prominence due to the shifting security outlook. Another significant issue is the fate of long-serving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has governed Israel for 19 years. Political expert Prof. Ofer Kenig says that this election will signal the direction of Israel's democracy.

Kenig points out that the current coalition is "full Right," a significant shift from previous Netanyahu-led governments. Most Israelis desire a broad government without extremist factions, haredim, or Arabs. Among the key issues will be haredi draft laws, a state commission of inquiry, and domestic policies like rising living costs.

The "third bloc," a new group of parties offering an alternative to the ruling right-wing coalition, will also be a crucial factor. Arab parties could weaken Netanyahu's bloc but might complicate the opposition bloc's coalition formation. Netanyahu's recent calls for a "broad national government" indicate his party's decline in the polls, suggesting a shift in his strategy from winning to not losing.

Netanyahu may not have the cards to win but is focusing on not losing. The opposition bloc's failure to achieve a majority could allow Netanyahu to stay in power as head of a transitional government until the next election. As Israelis vote, the real battle may unfold through coalition negotiations.