Israel election live: Netanyahu claims right-wing bloc will win but exit polls show deadlock

Jerusalem, October 27 - Exit polls from Israel's wartime election on Tuesday indicated a tight race between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's camp and Gadi Eisenkot's opposition bloc, showing neither side had a clear path to power. The projections raised concerns about a potential political stalemate, which could see Netanyahu remain in power as caretaker while negotiations for a coalition took weeks or months.

Netanyahu, in a speech to Likud party supporters, highlighted Israel's military successes and emphasized the need for a strong, right-wing government to counter the Iranian threat. However, opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot, who has lost family members in previous wars, emerged as Netanyahu's strongest challenger. Despite pledging a break from Netanyahu's leadership and far-right allies, Eisenkot shares Netanyahu's hawkish stance on security issues.

Voter turnout in Tuesday's election was an impressive 77.7%, marking the highest in over two decades. The final results are expected to be released in days, as Israel's fragmented political landscape often leaves smaller parties with significant influence in coalition negotiations.