Israel’s 2026 election: Who are the main leaders and where do they stand on the key issues?

Israel’s upcoming 2026 election is shaping up to be one of the most significant in the country’s history, with the first polls taking place since the Hamas-led attacks of 2023 and the ongoing wars in Gaza and Iran. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been in power since 2009 and is now seeking a seventh term, is facing significant criticism over his management of these conflicts, which have led to international isolation for Israel.

Other pressing issues for the Israeli electorate include the security situation in the occupied West Bank, particularly the expansion of settlements, and the compulsory military service for ultra-Orthodox communities. Middle East Eye provides an overview of the main candidates and their respective parties, offering insight into the diverse perspectives shaping the upcoming election.

Brief written by urgent.news from Middle East Eye's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.