‘Astronomical’ Arab turnout could reshape Israeli politics in key election
Read the latest on Israel's election here An “astronomical” turnout of Arab voters is expected in the Israeli elections on Tuesday, with the possibility that their politicians could significantly influence the next government, political sources have told The National . Senior opposition officials have also said there is a possibility of a coalition or agreed minority government with the Arab…
In the upcoming Israeli election on Tuesday, an "astronomical" turnout of Arab voters is anticipated, potentially reshaping the country's political landscape, according to political sources. The Arab parties stand to gain significantly from a surge in voter turnout, which could rise from approximately 50% to 70% of the two million people comprising 20% of Israel's population.
Opposition officials suggest that a coalition government with Arab parties could be a possibility if mainstream parties fail to secure a majority. If the opposition led by Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot forms a minority government with tacit support from the Arab parties, it could prompt significant changes, such as addressing settler violence and illegal dwellings in the occupied West Bank, and enforcing law and order.
Three potential coalition outcomes exist: a coalition between centre-right and ultra-orthodox parties, a "government of unity" that may include both Eisenkot's Likud and Netanyahu's Likud, or a coalition involving Ra'am, one of the Arab parties. Factors still influencing the outcome include the voting behavior of about 700,000 young first-time voters, the return of 70,000 Israelis living abroad, and the stance of ultra-Orthodox parties on conscripted military service.
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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