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An advertisement for an Israeli television channel featuring Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former army chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot is displayed on a bridge in Tel Aviv ahead of Israel’s elections, Oct. 21, 2026. (Credit: Ammar Awad/Reuters)
Add as preferred on Google With Israel’s election approaching, many uncertainties remain, making it difficult to predict how the race will unfold. The first general election since the Oct. 7, 2023, attack could determine the political future of outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as former Israeli army chief Gadi Eisenkot emerges as his main challenger. But beyond the much-anticipated head-to-head contest, less visible battles could determine the makeup of the next government. Here are the key factors to watch. Dig deeper Israel: From colonial ‘refuge’ to hegemonic ambitions Referendum on NetanyahuAccording to many observers, the election is shaping up as a referendum on Netanyahu. The prime minister’s Likud party is neck and neck with Eisenkot’s Yashar, with polls putting both parties at around 20 seats each. The coalitions forming around... You have reached your article limitStay informed about a Middle East in crisis.Subscribe for $0.5/month for the first 3 months. Subscribe now Log in This article is only available to L’Orient Today subscribers. Subscribe now Log in Create a free account to continue reading this article. You’ll also receive The Morning Brief, our must-read daily digest of Middle East news. Opt out anytime Email Address Password Email Address Password I would like to receive special offers from L'Orient Today as well as selections of the best articles. Register By creating an account, you agree to the terms and conditions of use and our privacy policy. Register Or register with: Facebook
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