Israel to give verdict on Netanyahu in pivotal election

Israel is set to announce its verdict on veteran Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a pivotal election, occurring three years after the October 7 Hamas attack. Israelis are casting their ballots amid three years of regional wars, with accountability and security at the forefront of the campaign. The close election pits Netanyahu against his centrist rival, Gadi Eisenkot, a political newcomer.

Over 7.3 million eligible voters, including many young people voting for the first time, will determine Israel's future. Netanyahu, 77, focuses on his security credentials, citing his relationship with US President Donald Trump and his ability to ensure Israeli safety. In the past three years, Netanyahu has led multiple wars, resulting in significant damage to Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, and other regions.

The opposition criticizes Netanyahu for backing far-right ultra-nationalists and his failure to hold himself accountable for the October 7 attack. An informal bloc of parties, led by Eisenkot's Yashar, seeks to unseat the premier. Neither candidate has pledged to work with the predominantly Arab lists, which could play a crucial role if the election results are close.

Voting ends at 10 pm (2000 GMT), and final results may take days to emerge, with the possibility of new elections if no coalition can be formed.