Israel votes in close election as Netanyahu fights to retain power
Israelis voted Tuesday in the country’s first national election since the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing a close challenge from an alliance led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot.
Turnout reached 55.7% by 4 p.m., the highest recorded at that point in an Israeli election since 1973, according to the Central Elections Committee. About 7.3 million people were eligible to vote. Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. and were scheduled to close at 10 p.m., although Netanyahu’s Likud party formally requested extended voting hours, The National reported.
The campaign has focused on responsibility for the October 7 security failures, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and its wars with Iran. Netanyahu has emphasized his wartime leadership and relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump. Eisenkot has accused the prime minister of campaigning …
RELATED DEVELOPMENTS · 5
- Israel Votes as Netanyahu Faces Close Challenge and Iran Dispute 133 outlets
- Israel votes in first election since October 7 attacks 41 outlets
- Israel votes as Netanyahu faces close challenge from Eisenkot 48 outlets
- Netanyahu, Israeli officials deny rift with military over reported Iran operation 34 outlets
- Trump endorses Netanyahu as Israel prepares for closely contested election 107 outlets