Israelis went to the polls on Tuesday in what is being described as the country's most consequential election in decades. The election is seen as a battle for the country's soul, with many voters seeking change and accountability for the government's handling of past atrocities. The familiar scene of bereaved families imploring Israelis to remember the victims of 7 October was a reminder of what Israelis have endured over the past three years.
The 7 October atrocities remain front and centre in the Israeli psyche, and many voters are demanding accountability for the failures leading up to the event. Several parties have made the establishment of a national commission of inquiry a key platform point. Former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief Gadi Eisenkot has been leading in the polls, ahead of the incumbent, Benjamin Netanyahu. However, polls and reality often tell different stories, and the results have been far from what pundits predicted.
The election has seen a high voter turnout, with a 53-year high recorded, including a surprising number of Arab voters who are fed up with the policies of far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. An estimated 70 000 people, including celebrities like Gal Gadot, flew in to exercise their civic duty. Gadot recorded herself voting, saying that she was exercising her right to vote and asking all Israelis to do the same.
Gadi Eisenkot, who has paid an enormous personal price, losing his son and two nephews in combat in Gaza, is seen as a strong contender. Born in Tiberius to a poor Mizrahi family, he rose through the ranks of the IDF to become chief of staff. Should he win, he would make history as Israel's first Mizrahi prime minister.
Benjamin Netanyahu, who has headed a government that many believe has been the worst in Israel's history, is facing criticism for his handling of the 7 October atrocities. Netanyahu has survived scandals and controversies in the past but has failed to effectively communicate Israel's narrative in the wake of 7 October. His clarion call of "Total Victory" has been met with skepticism, and many believe that he has yet to take responsibility for the failures leading up to the atrocities.
The gaining of many seats by Arab parties has been a significant development in the election. This will be key when forming coalitions or moving towards a national unity government. The Israeli electorate approached the election acutely aware that Israel is now a country maligned by many, and voters are seeking change.
The election outcome will have significant implications for Israel's future, with many hoping that the next government will be worthy of the country's history and the fallen, murdered, and bereaved. The decision about who to vote for cannot be taken lightly, particularly in post-7 October Israel.
Key points
- The election has seen a high voter turnout, with a 53-year high recorded.
- Gadi Eisenkot is a strong contender, having led in the polls ahead of Benjamin Netanyahu.
- The gaining of many seats by Arab parties will be significant in forming coalitions or moving towards a national unity government.
