Eisenkot challenges Netanyahu with Trump-backed war record in Israel vote
Voters head to the polls on Tuesday to decide whether the prime minister remains in power or steps aside after a turbulent period of war and internal division.
By Ryan Davidson ·
Israeli voters cast ballots on Tuesday in a contest that will determine the fate of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The election pits the long-serving leader against Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief of staff who has built a rival alliance. Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. local time and remain open until 10 p.m.
Netanyahu, who has held office for 19 years, campaigns on his record during the recent wars. He highlights his partnership with U.S. President Donald Trump, who endorsed the prime minister and joined Israel in military operations against Iran. On Sunday, Netanyahu claimed Trump was ready to act again to remove the Iranian threat if he stayed in power.
Eisenkot counters that Netanyahu relies on fear and threats. The former security hawk argued that Trump would cooperate fully with any leader chosen by the people. Eisenkot’s coalition draws support from the right and the center, offering a potential alternative to the current right-wing government.
The central election committee reported that 7.3 million Israelis are eligible to vote. Approximately 330,000 of those citizens are casting ballots for the first time. The outcome will determine which party leader receives the mandate to form a government in the 120-seat parliament.
Background on the race includes the trauma of the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas. Israeli government tallies say 1,200 people died in that assault, and 251 were taken hostage. Gaza health authorities report that 74,000 people have died in subsequent Israeli attacks. The conflict has left much of Gaza destroyed and has strained international ties.
Supporters and opponents of Netanyahu expressed divergent views at polling stations. Mali Hajaj, an Eisenkot supporter, said a national inquiry is necessary for healing. Nof Gabay, an 18-year-old Likud supporter, called Netanyahu the right man for the state and said he managed the war in the best possible way. Lisa Tortor hoped Netanyahu would leave office to allow for repairs to the country’s image.
Coalition arithmetic remains uncertain. Neither candidate has a clear path to a majority. Netanyahu may need the support of far-right leaders Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich to form a government. Eisenkot has ruled out partnering with Arab parties but analysts see a possibility of a minority government supported by them to remove Netanyahu from power.
Political analyst Amotz Asa-El of the Shalom Hartman Institute said he expects a slight majority for either side rather than a landslide. If neither candidate can form a governing coalition, Netanyahu could remain as caretaker until another election is held next year.
