Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is leading a caretaker government ahead of the October 27 elections, with his nationalist coalition becoming the first Israeli government in over half a century to complete its full four-year term without collapse or dissolution. The only Israeli PM since Golda Meir to successfully see out a full parliamentary term in office, Netanyahu has steered the Jewish state through one of the most tumultuous periods in its history, which started with internal political instability and worsened with the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attack, which cascaded into the Gaza war and the Iran-Israel-US conflict. The 25th Knesset completed its full scheduled duration and was dissolved on 17 July, &nbsp;the first time the Israeli parliament had completed its regular term on schedule since 1988. But will Netanyahu make a comeback as Israeli PM for the seventh term? What are the opinion polls and prediction markets saying?<h2>Gadi Eisenkot is the frontrunner in prediction markets</h2>Former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, who started his new centrist Zionist party Yashar just a year ago, &nbsp;is ahead of Netanyahu in the top prediction markets. Polymarket put Eisenkot at approximately 48 per cent, compared with 35–36 per cent for Netanyahu. Naftali Bennett is at nearly 10 per cent, while Avigdor Lieberman is at under 2 per cent. On Kalshi prediction market, the odds are in favour of Eizenkot at 49 per cent, while Netanyahu is at 34 per cent and Bennett at 8 per cent. A longer-term Kalshi market question on 'Who will succeed Netanyahu as Prime Minister of Israel' shows Eisenkot favoured higher, at around 60 per cent.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-ll-settle-score-with-everyone-involved-in-oct-7-attack-says-netanyahu-at-memorial-1791209583749">‘We’ll settle score with everyone involved in Oct. 7 attack,’ says Netanyahu at memorial</a><h2>Opinion polls paint a tighter picture</h2>In opinion polls, Yashar and Netanyahu's Likud are tied as the two largest parties, with both averaging 21–23 seats. Bennett's party averages 11 seats, Yair Golan's The Democrats 9–10, Lieberman's Yisrael Beytenu 8–9, and the right-wing Otzma Yehudit, led by firebrand Ben-Gvir, around 8. Recent polls by Kan, N12 and Channel 13 show Eisenkot leading or tied with Netanyahu, while Bennett trails Netanyahu more clearly.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-denounces-enemies-allies-in-un-speech-1790334334623/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-denounces-enemies-allies-in-un-speech-1790334334623/embed</a><h2>How is the Knesset going to look?</h2>The next government is also likely to be a coalition, given how the 120 seats in the Knesset are currently projected to be distributed. Netanyahu's outgoing coalition parties, which include Likud, Religious Zionism, Otzma Yehudit, Shas and United Torah Judaism (UTJ), average 51–54 seats across recent aggregates. &nbsp;Only some right-leaning pollsters, such as Channel 14, have projected a majority for Likud and its allies. The Zionist opposition parties combined are in the low-to-mid 50s. Arab parties are averaging around 13 seats.But no bloc has consistently cleared the 61-seat threshold required to form a government. This indicates that once again, coalition arithmetic will kick in after the elections. Whether Netanyahu will still emerge as PM will depend on Likud's electoral performance as well as post-election negotiations. On that count, this is not Netanyahu's first rodeo.

Israel’s October 27 election pits Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against top contender for premiership Gadi Eisenkot, with polls showing a tight race. Neither bloc appears near the 61-seat majority, making coalition arithmetic and post-election negotiations inevitable

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is leading a caretaker government ahead of the October 27 elections, with his nationalist coalition becoming the first Israeli government in over half a century to complete its full four-year term without collapse or dissolution. The only Israeli PM since Golda Meir to successfully see out a full parliamentary term in office, Netanyahu has steered the Jewish state through one of the most tumultuous periods in its history, which started with internal political instability and worsened with the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attack, which cascaded into the Gaza war and the Iran-Israel-US conflict. The 25th Knesset completed its full scheduled duration and was dissolved on 17 July, the first time the Israeli parliament had completed its regular term on schedule since 1988. But will Netanyahu make a comeback as Israeli PM for the seventh term? What are the opinion polls and prediction markets saying? Gadi Eisenkot is the frontrunner in prediction markets Former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, who started his new centrist Zionist party Yashar just a year ago, is ahead of Netanyahu in the top prediction markets. Polymarket put Eisenkot at approximately 48 per cent, compared with 35–36 per cent for Netanyahu. Naftali Bennett is at nearly 10 per cent, while Avigdor Lieberman is at under 2 per cent. On Kalshi prediction market, the odds are in favour of Eizenkot at 49 per cent, while Netanyahu is at 34 per cent and Bennett at 8 per cent. A longer-term Kalshi market question on 'Who will succeed Netanyahu as Prime Minister of Israel' shows Eisenkot favoured higher, at around 60 per cent. Also read: ‘We’ll settle score with everyone involved in Oct. 7 attack,’ says Netanyahu at memorial Opinion polls paint a tighter picture In opinion polls, Yashar and Netanyahu's Likud are tied as the two largest parties, with both averaging 21–23 seats. Bennett's party averages 11 seats, Yair Golan's The Democrats 9–10, Lieberman's Yisrael Beytenu 8–9, and the right-wing Otzma Yehudit, led by firebrand Ben-Gvir, around 8. Recent polls by Kan, N12 and Channel 13 show Eisenkot leading or tied with Netanyahu, while Bennett trails Netanyahu more clearly. https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-denounces-enemies-allies-in-un-speech-1790334334623/embed How is the Knesset going to look? The next government is also likely to be a coalition, given how the 120 seats in the Knesset are currently projected to be distributed. Netanyahu's outgoing coalition parties, which include Likud, Religious Zionism, Otzma Yehudit, Shas and United Torah Judaism (UTJ), average 51–54 seats across recent aggregates. Only some right-leaning pollsters, such as Channel 14, have projected a majority for Likud and its allies. The Zionist opposition parties combined are in the low-to-mid 50s. Arab parties are averaging around 13 seats. But no bloc has consistently cleared the 61-seat threshold required to form a government. This indicates that once again, coalition arithmetic will kick in after the elections. Whether Netanyahu will still emerge as PM will depend on Likud's electoral performance as well as post-election negotiations. On that count, this is not Netanyahu's first rodeo.

Israel’s October 27 election pits Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against top contender for premiership Gadi Eisenkot, with polls showing a tight race. Neither bloc appears near the 61-seat majority, making coalition arithmetic and post-election negotiations inevitable

Will Netanyahu lose premiership? How prediction markets and opinion poll numbers stack up ahead of Israeli elections

A violent confrontation erupted on Saturday evening at a protest junction in Kabri in Israel’s Western Galilee. According to reports, a female driver in a vehicle from Ma’alot allegedly shouted insults and accusations at protesters before attempting to drive toward demonstrators standing at a crosswalk. Two passengers from the vehicle violently snatched an Israeli flag and used the flagpole in an attempt to attack other protesters. This incident took place amid dozens of widespread anti-government protests and road blockades occurring across northern and central Israel, which also included memorial ceremonies for victims of the October 7 attacks.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/was-flydubai-omani-co-pilot-planning-a-9-11-like-terrorist-act-in-israel-uae-probe-reveals-1791038126847">Was Flydubai Omani co-pilot planning a 9/11-like ‘terrorist act’ in Israel?</a>&nbsp;Earlier, on Friday night, one man was critically wounded, 19 wounded when a brawl between Druse and Muslims in the northern village of Abu Sinan spun out of control. However, reports indicate that both the confrontation were not connected. Ibrahim, a spokesman for local council head Nuhad Mishlav, said that the brawl had nothing to do with tension between Druse and Muslims and that relations between the communities are sound.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netanyahu-warns-very-heavy-price-if-any-power-behind-flydubai-incident-1790962555443">Netanyahu warns 'very heavy price' if any power behind Flydubai incident</a><h2>The Friday brawl</h2>

Tension between Druse and Muslims is believed to have been sparked by recent violence between Arabs and the police and army, including the killing of a Kafr Kana man by police a week ago. The Druse are heavily represented in the state security services and law enforcement, in particular the Border Police, and videos and online posts about Druse policing the recent riots in Jerusalem have circulated widely. Police referred to the incident as “a grave occurrence in which many civilians who live together as neighbors were harmed” and called on Druse and Muslim residents of the town to act responsibly and work to prevent further fighting. Classes will be canceled in Abu Sinan schools Sunday on the recommendation of district police.&nbsp;

Tensions between Druze and Muslim residents in Israel’s Abu Sinan have risen amid recent violence involving Arabs, police and the army. The unrest follows the killing of a Kafr Kana man by police. Schools in Abu Sinan will remain closed Sunday on the recommendation of district police.

A violent confrontation erupted on Saturday evening at a protest junction in Kabri in Israel’s Western Galilee. According to reports, a female driver in a vehicle from Ma’alot allegedly shouted insults and accusations at protesters before attempting to drive toward demonstrators standing at a crosswalk. Two passengers from the vehicle violently snatched an Israeli flag and used the flagpole in an attempt to attack other protesters. This incident took place amid dozens of widespread anti-government protests and road blockades occurring across northern and central Israel, which also included memorial ceremonies for victims of the October 7 attacks. Also Read: Was Flydubai Omani co-pilot planning a 9/11-like ‘terrorist act’ in Israel? Earlier, on Friday night, one man was critically wounded, 19 wounded when a brawl between Druse and Muslims in the northern village of Abu Sinan spun out of control. However, reports indicate that both the confrontation were not connected. Ibrahim, a spokesman for local council head Nuhad Mishlav, said that the brawl had nothing to do with tension between Druse and Muslims and that relations between the communities are sound. Also Read: Netanyahu warns 'very heavy price' if any power behind Flydubai incident The Friday brawl

Tensions between Druze and Muslim residents in Israel’s Abu Sinan have risen amid recent violence involving Arabs, police and the army. The unrest follows the killing of a Kafr Kana man by police. Schools in Abu Sinan will remain closed Sunday on the recommendation of district police.

Violent confrontation at Kabri protest junction as Druze-Muslim tensions flare in Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Sept. 29) warned that Israel's enemies could attempt an attack ahead of the country's elections scheduled for October 27.&nbsp;Speaking during a visit to the Tel Nof air base, Netanyahu said Israel had received indications of a possible attack but did not identify who could be behind it.&nbsp;"We have indications that ahead of the elections our enemies will try to attack us. So... I am sending you a message: Don't mess with us, not now and not ever. Our long arm will reach you anywhere, anytime," Netanyahu said in a video released by his office.&nbsp;Netanyahu also warned that Israel would respond to any attack and could target those responsible beyond the country's borders.<h2>Opposition seeks security briefing</h2>Netanyahu's remarks prompted concern from opposition leader Yair Lapid, who contacted the prime minister's office and asked for an "urgent security update".&nbsp;"I am seeking to understand whether the threats are real, and if so, how the Prime Minister is preparing this time to ensure that the elections will take place without disruptions," Lapid wrote on X.&nbsp;Netanyahu's office later said the prime minister had "instructed his military secretary to update the opposition leader today on the latest developments".&nbsp;The warning came shortly before Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened to target Hamas leaders based outside the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-external-party-has-any-locus-standi-india-rejects-turkish-president-erdogan-s-kashmir-remarks-at-unga-1790692921670">'No external party has any locus standi': India rejects Turkish President Erdogan's Kashmir remarks at UNGA</a><h2>Katz threatens Hamas leaders abroad</h2>Katz issued his warning after the Israeli military said it had killed a Hamas commander in northern Gaza overnight.&nbsp;"Hamas leaders abroad are also in the crosshairs. None of these despicable murderers, who played a central role in the October 7 massacre, should die peacefully in their beds," Katz said, referring to the 2023 attack that triggered the war in Gaza.&nbsp;"Once, they were spared because of a mishap -- but the next time will come, and they too will be sent to the depths of hell," he added.&nbsp;His remarks appeared to refer to an Israeli airstrike targeting a gathering of senior Hamas leaders in Qatar in September 2025.&nbsp;In recent weeks, Netanyahu and Katz have issued repeated warnings to Iran, Hezbollah and the Palestinian Authority, threatening retaliation if Israel comes under attack.Israelis are due to vote on October 27, with Netanyahu facing a tight race for another term.

Netanyahu warned that Israel's enemies could attempt an attack before the October 27 elections, while opposition leader Yair Lapid sought an urgent security briefing.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (Sept. 29) warned that Israel's enemies could attempt an attack ahead of the country's elections scheduled for October 27. Speaking during a visit to the Tel Nof air base, Netanyahu said Israel had received indications of a possible attack but did not identify who could be behind it. "We have indications that ahead of the elections our enemies will try to attack us. So... I am sending you a message: Don't mess with us, not now and not ever. Our long arm will reach you anywhere, anytime," Netanyahu said in a video released by his office. Netanyahu also warned that Israel would respond to any attack and could target those responsible beyond the country's borders. Opposition seeks security briefing Netanyahu's remarks prompted concern from opposition leader Yair Lapid, who contacted the prime minister's office and asked for an "urgent security update". "I am seeking to understand whether the threats are real, and if so, how the Prime Minister is preparing this time to ensure that the elections will take place without disruptions," Lapid wrote on X. Netanyahu's office later said the prime minister had "instructed his military secretary to update the opposition leader today on the latest developments". The warning came shortly before Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened to target Hamas leaders based outside the Gaza Strip. Also Read: 'No external party has any locus standi': India rejects Turkish President Erdogan's Kashmir remarks at UNGA Katz threatens Hamas leaders abroad Katz issued his warning after the Israeli military said it had killed a Hamas commander in northern Gaza overnight. "Hamas leaders abroad are also in the crosshairs. None of these despicable murderers, who played a central role in the October 7 massacre, should die peacefully in their beds," Katz said, referring to the 2023 attack that triggered the war in Gaza. "Once, they were spared because of a mishap -- but the next time will come, and they too will be sent to the depths of hell," he added. His remarks appeared to refer to an Israeli airstrike targeting a gathering of senior Hamas leaders in Qatar in September 2025. In recent weeks, Netanyahu and Katz have issued repeated warnings to Iran, Hezbollah and the Palestinian Authority, threatening retaliation if Israel comes under attack. Israelis are due to vote on October 27, with Netanyahu facing a tight race for another term.

Netanyahu warned that Israel's enemies could attempt an attack before the October 27 elections, while opposition leader Yair Lapid sought an urgent security briefing.

'Don't mess with us': Netanyahu warns of possible attack ahead of Israel polls

As Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu seeks a record seventh term in office in the upcoming elections, he continues to advocate a hardline approach when it comes to Palestinians. However, a recent survey has reflected how this stance may not be resonating with many voters any longer.The survey, conducted by the Jewish Public Policy Institute from September 1 to 3, focused on a recent incident in the West Bank's Qusra village.In late August, dozens of masked Israelis arrived in pickup trucks, threw stones at residents and barricaded themselves inside a house. While several Palestinians were wounded, the rioters fled when security forces arrived.According to this survey, one-third of Israelis described these rioters as "Israeli terrorists", whereas another 18 per cent termed them "nationalist criminals". Only 13 per cent of them had a lenient view, calling them young people who sometimes go too far.Crucially, merely 5 per cent of respondents expressed support for the Jewish settlers.Now, the poll also showed a clear political divide. Sixty-three per cent of left-wing respondents described the rioters as "Israeli terrorists". That figure fell to 49 per cent among those leaning towards the centre, and just 3 per cent among right-wing respondents.However, 27 per cent of Jewish Israelis also used the term "Israeli terrorists" for the settlers.This comes at a time when criticism of the Benjamin Netanyahu-led government has been mounting globally over its policies in the West Bank.For instance, the UK accused Israel of turning a blind eye to the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians and announced a ban on imports of all goods produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank.Eleven other countries, including France and Canada, also announced similar plans. This drew a fierce retaliation from Israel, which announced the closure of Britain's consulate in Jerusalem.Palestinians continue to suffer, though.Rescuers were scrambling to recover bodies from a six-storey building in Gaza City after it collapsed overnight following damage sustained in Israeli strikes.According to the local authorities, at least 12 people, including five children, have died, and over 100 people remain missing.With Israel's growing isolation, it remains to be seen whether this will translate into an electoral setback for Netanyahu.

The poll also showed a clear political divide. Sixty-three per cent of left-wing respondents described the rioters as "Israeli terrorists". That figure fell to 49 per cent among those leaning towards the centre, and just 3 per cent among right-wing respondents.

As Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu seeks a record seventh term in office in the upcoming elections, he continues to advocate a hardline approach when it comes to Palestinians. However, a recent survey has reflected how this stance may not be resonating with many voters any longer. The survey, conducted by the Jewish Public Policy Institute from September 1 to 3, focused on a recent incident in the West Bank's Qusra village. In late August, dozens of masked Israelis arrived in pickup trucks, threw stones at residents and barricaded themselves inside a house. While several Palestinians were wounded, the rioters fled when security forces arrived. According to this survey, one-third of Israelis described these rioters as "Israeli terrorists", whereas another 18 per cent termed them "nationalist criminals". Only 13 per cent of them had a lenient view, calling them young people who sometimes go too far. Crucially, merely 5 per cent of respondents expressed support for the Jewish settlers. Now, the poll also showed a clear political divide. Sixty-three per cent of left-wing respondents described the rioters as "Israeli terrorists". That figure fell to 49 per cent among those leaning towards the centre, and just 3 per cent among right-wing respondents. However, 27 per cent of Jewish Israelis also used the term "Israeli terrorists" for the settlers. This comes at a time when criticism of the Benjamin Netanyahu-led government has been mounting globally over its policies in the West Bank. For instance, the UK accused Israel of turning a blind eye to the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians and announced a ban on imports of all goods produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Eleven other countries, including France and Canada, also announced similar plans. This drew a fierce retaliation from Israel, which announced the closure of Britain's consulate in Jerusalem. Palestinians continue to suffer, though. Rescuers were scrambling to recover bodies from a six-storey building in Gaza City after it collapsed overnight following damage sustained in Israeli strikes. According to the local authorities, at least 12 people, including five children, have died, and over 100 people remain missing. With Israel's growing isolation, it remains to be seen whether this will translate into an electoral setback for Netanyahu.

The poll also showed a clear political divide. Sixty-three per cent of left-wing respondents described the rioters as "Israeli terrorists". That figure fell to 49 per cent among those leaning towards the centre, and just 3 per cent among right-wing respondents.

Netanyahu faces heat over settler violence in West Bank ahead of polls | Gravitas

Israel’s ruling Likud party has launched a billboard featuring New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani alongside Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem, accusing the four of wanting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to lose the upcoming October election.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-new-infiltration-bill-could-turn-foreign-contacts-into-crimes-journalists-and-others-face-prison-under-proposed-law-details-inside-1786935582385">Iran’s new ‘infiltration’ bill could turn foreign contacts into crimes: Journalists and others face prison under proposed law. Details inside</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">אל תתנו להם לנצח <a href="https://t.co/JgvJXAPtia">pic.twitter.com/JgvJXAPtia</a>&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://x.com/netanyahu/status/2089008064422691026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“They want Netanyahu to lose, don’t let them win,” the billboard says, urging voters not to allow the group to prevail. Netanyahu also reposted a photograph of the billboard on social media with the caption: “Don’t let them win.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/economic-isolation-like-never-seen-before-hormuz-blockade-continuation-us-treasury-secretary-s-fresh-threat-for-iran-1786686121642">‘Economic isolation like never seen before, Hormuz blockade continuation’: US Treasury Secretary’s fresh threat to Iran</a>&nbsp;Social media posts claimed the billboard was located in Jerusalem, but the advertisement is actually displayed in Tel Aviv overlooking the Ayalon Highway. The billboard has also drawn a mocking response from rival Israeli politicians and political parties, who created their own versions of the advertisement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treachery-of-puppet-rulers-iran-s-hardline-newspaper-rails-against-mecca-defence-pact-accuses-muslim-leaders-of-abandoning-palestinians-1786429230978">‘Treachery of puppet rulers’: Iran’s hardline newspaper rails against Mecca defence pact, accuses Muslim leaders of abandoning Palestinians</a>&nbsp;Yashar, the party led by former Israel Defence Forces chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot, posted a modified version reading: “They want the IDF to collapse, don’t let Netanyahu win.”&nbsp;The billboard comes ahead of Israel’s October election campaign, with Likud using Mamdani’s inclusion alongside senior Iranian, Turkish and Hezbollah figures to portray opposition to Netanyahu as aligned with his regional adversaries.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-not-having-negotiations-with-us-iran-denies-trump-s-claim-says-working-with-oman-on-temporary-hormuz-shipping-route-1785750172437">‘We are not having negotiations with US’: Iran denies Trump’s claim, says working with Oman on temporary Hormuz shipping route</a>&nbsp;

Israel’s Likud party launched a Tel Aviv billboard framing New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani alongside Iranian, Turkish, and Hezbollah leaders as regional rivals who want Benjamin Netanyahu to lose October’s election.

Israel’s ruling Likud party has launched a billboard featuring New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani alongside Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem, accusing the four of wanting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to lose the upcoming October election. Also read: Iran’s new ‘infiltration’ bill could turn foreign contacts into crimes: Journalists and others face prison under proposed law. Details inside

Israel’s Likud party launched a Tel Aviv billboard framing New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani alongside Iranian, Turkish, and Hezbollah leaders as regional rivals who want Benjamin Netanyahu to lose October’s election.

Netanyahu’s party puts Mamdani alongside Khamenei, Erdogan and Hezbollah chief in election ad

Israel heads to a national election on October 27, the first since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that transformed the country's, as well as West Asia's, political and security landscape.With less than three months to go, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears to have narrowed the gap with his main challenger in the race for public support.A new Channel 12 television poll shows Netanyahu and former Israel Defence Forces chief Gadi Eisenkot tied, with 38 per cent of respondents saying they would prefer each of them to lead the country.The result marks a significant turnaround for Netanyahu. Earlier this month, the same broadcaster found Eisenkot leading with 43 per cent support compared with Netanyahu's 34 per cent.Israel does not directly elect its prime minister. Voters choose members of the 120-seat Knesset, and the leader most likely to form a governing coalition becomes prime minister.The poll projects the anti-Netanyahu bloc, excluding Arab parties, at 60 seats, just one short of the 61 needed for a majority.Netanyahu's bloc is projected to win 50 seats, while Arab parties are expected to secure the remaining 10.The survey also projects Eisenkot's Yashar Party as the largest in parliament with 23 seats, followed closely by Netanyahu's Likud with 22.When asked what would shape their vote, 32 per cent of respondents identified Israel's handling of the multi-front war as their top concern, while 25 per cent pointed to the cost of living and the economy.Even as Israel prepares for a political future, both Gazans and Israelis continue to reel from the impact of the war.Gazan health officials say at least three Palestinians were killed and more than 16 others were injured in two Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City and the Khan Younis area.The Israeli military says it targeted two military operatives.According to the Gaza Health Ministry, more than 1,200 Palestinians have been killed since the October 2025 ceasefire took effect, while the ministry says the overall death toll in Gaza since October 2023 has crossed 73,000.Israel is also facing growing concern over the mental health of its armed forces.Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports that two female active-duty soldiers died by suicide over the past two days, taking the number of active-duty military suicides this year to at least 16.The report says the annual total rose from seven in the final months of 2023 to 21 in 2024 and 22 in 2025, the highest level in 15 years, with several cases linked to combat service and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) associated with the Gaza war.

A new poll shows Benjamin Netanyahu tied with Gadi Eisenkot ahead of Israel's October 27 election, as security, the Gaza war and the economy dominate voter concerns.

Israel heads to a national election on October 27, the first since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that transformed the country's, as well as West Asia's, political and security landscape. With less than three months to go, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears to have narrowed the gap with his main challenger in the race for public support. A new Channel 12 television poll shows Netanyahu and former Israel Defence Forces chief Gadi Eisenkot tied, with 38 per cent of respondents saying they would prefer each of them to lead the country. The result marks a significant turnaround for Netanyahu. Earlier this month, the same broadcaster found Eisenkot leading with 43 per cent support compared with Netanyahu's 34 per cent. Israel does not directly elect its prime minister. Voters choose members of the 120-seat Knesset, and the leader most likely to form a governing coalition becomes prime minister. The poll projects the anti-Netanyahu bloc, excluding Arab parties, at 60 seats, just one short of the 61 needed for a majority. Netanyahu's bloc is projected to win 50 seats, while Arab parties are expected to secure the remaining 10. The survey also projects Eisenkot's Yashar Party as the largest in parliament with 23 seats, followed closely by Netanyahu's Likud with 22. When asked what would shape their vote, 32 per cent of respondents identified Israel's handling of the multi-front war as their top concern, while 25 per cent pointed to the cost of living and the economy. Even as Israel prepares for a political future, both Gazans and Israelis continue to reel from the impact of the war. Gazan health officials say at least three Palestinians were killed and more than 16 others were injured in two Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City and the Khan Younis area. The Israeli military says it targeted two military operatives. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, more than 1,200 Palestinians have been killed since the October 2025 ceasefire took effect, while the ministry says the overall death toll in Gaza since October 2023 has crossed 73,000. Israel is also facing growing concern over the mental health of its armed forces. Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports that two female active-duty soldiers died by suicide over the past two days, taking the number of active-duty military suicides this year to at least 16. The report says the annual total rose from seven in the final months of 2023 to 21 in 2024 and 22 in 2025, the highest level in 15 years, with several cases linked to combat service and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) associated with the Gaza war.

A new poll shows Benjamin Netanyahu tied with Gadi Eisenkot ahead of Israel's October 27 election, as security, the Gaza war and the economy dominate voter concerns.

Gravitas | Netanyahu's poll numbers rise amid internal turmoil

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing a defining political battle ahead of the 2026 elections, with his decade-long dominance under pressure from public anger over the October 7 security failures, the prolonged Gaza war and growing calls for leadership change. While Netanyahu remains a powerful figure with a loyal support base, opinion polls indicate that his ruling coalition could face a tough fight to secure a parliamentary majority as opposition parties attempt to reshape Israel’s political landscape. Here are the biggest challenges that Netanyahu is facing.<h2>Fallout from October 7 security failure</h2>The October 7, 2023 Hamas attack remains one of the biggest challenges to Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future, as questions continue to surround the government’s failure to prevent the deadliest assault on Israel in decades. Despite Netanyahu’s long-standing image as a leader focused on national security, critics have accused his administration of intelligence and policy failures that allowed the attack to happen. Public demands for accountability, including calls for investigations into the security breakdown, have continued to put pressure on the prime minister and could become a major factor influencing voter sentiment in the 2026 election.Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-russia-ukraine-war-is-reshaping-energy-flows-food-prices-defence-spending-and-india-s-strategy-wion-decodes-1783337395169"> How Russia-Ukraine war is reshaping energy flows, food prices, defence spending and India’s strategy | WION Decodes</a><h2>Handling of hostage situation, Gaza war</h2>Netanyahu has faced criticism over the handling of the hostage situation in Gaza, with many expressing concerns over the safety of Israeli’s held captive by Hamas during the war. While the hostage situation has ended and a ceasefire has been reached in Gaza, the Israeli leader faces mounting pressure over other prolonged wars.Iran and Lebanon threatsAnother major concern for Netanyahu is continued fighting with Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and the Iranian threats. The looming uncertainty over the conflicts has kept fears of a wider regional conflict. Although a ceasefire was reached with Iran, the public remains divided on whether Israel achieved victory. According to a poll by The Institute for National Security Studies, only 15 per cent believe Israel emerged victorious. As per the survey, 43 per cent believe the war ended without a decisive outcome, while 37per cent believe Iran won.<h2>Coalition instability</h2>Netanyahu’s reliance on a right-wing and religious coalition remains a major vulnerability. During his term, there have been several disagreements among coalition partners over war policy, hostage negotiations and domestic issues, which have repeatedly tested the government’s stability. Any internal split could weaken Netanyahu before the election and damage his ability to present himself as a leader capable of managing Israel’s crises.Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-japan-summit-how-global-energy-shocks-are-bringing-india-and-japan-closer-iran-russia-ukraine-1783005038442"> India-Japan Summit: How global energy shocks are bringing India and Japan closer</a><h2>Growing demand for political change</h2>Public frustration over years of prolonged war has fueled calls for new leadership in Israel. Even though Netanyahu still holds a loyal voter base, polls have indicated his coalition faces a tough path to securing the 61 seats needed to form a government.<h2>Opposition consolidation</h2>The opposition’s ability to unite could determine how serious the challenge becomes for Netanyahu. Figures such as former military leaders have emerged as potential alternatives, but opposition parties still face the challenge of building a common platform. Recent reporting suggests Netanyahu remains politically resilient, but rivals are attempting to capitalise on voter dissatisfaction.Watch | US-Iran war: Iran retaliates against US allies in Gulf after US strikes<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-retaliates-against-us-allies-in-gulf-after-us-strikes-1783941110551/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-retaliates-against-us-allies-in-gulf-after-us-strikes-1783941110551/embed</a>&nbsp;

Netanyahu’s political future faces a tough test ahead of the 2026 election, with public sentiment, internal pressures and shifting alliances set to play a crucial role in determining the outcome.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing a defining political battle ahead of the 2026 elections, with his decade-long dominance under pressure from public anger over the October 7 security failures, the prolonged Gaza war and growing calls for leadership change. While Netanyahu remains a powerful figure with a loyal support base, opinion polls indicate that his ruling coalition could face a tough fight to secure a parliamentary majority as opposition parties attempt to reshape Israel’s political landscape. Here are the biggest challenges that Netanyahu is facing. Fallout from October 7 security failure The October 7, 2023 Hamas attack remains one of the biggest challenges to Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future, as questions continue to surround the government’s failure to prevent the deadliest assault on Israel in decades. Despite Netanyahu’s long-standing image as a leader focused on national security, critics have accused his administration of intelligence and policy failures that allowed the attack to happen. Public demands for accountability, including calls for investigations into the security breakdown, have continued to put pressure on the prime minister and could become a major factor influencing voter sentiment in the 2026 election. Also read | How Russia-Ukraine war is reshaping energy flows, food prices, defence spending and India’s strategy | WION Decodes Handling of hostage situation, Gaza war Netanyahu has faced criticism over the handling of the hostage situation in Gaza, with many expressing concerns over the safety of Israeli’s held captive by Hamas during the war. While the hostage situation has ended and a ceasefire has been reached in Gaza, the Israeli leader faces mounting pressure over other prolonged wars. Iran and Lebanon threats Another major concern for Netanyahu is continued fighting with Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and the Iranian threats. The looming uncertainty over the conflicts has kept fears of a wider regional conflict. Although a ceasefire was reached with Iran, the public remains divided on whether Israel achieved victory. According to a poll by The Institute for National Security Studies, only 15 per cent believe Israel emerged victorious. As per the survey, 43 per cent believe the war ended without a decisive outcome, while 37per cent believe Iran won. Coalition instability Netanyahu’s reliance on a right-wing and religious coalition remains a major vulnerability. During his term, there have been several disagreements among coalition partners over war policy, hostage negotiations and domestic issues, which have repeatedly tested the government’s stability. Any internal split could weaken Netanyahu before the election and damage his ability to present himself as a leader capable of managing Israel’s crises. Also read | India-Japan Summit: How global energy shocks are bringing India and Japan closer Growing demand for political change Public frustration over years of prolonged war has fueled calls for new leadership in Israel. Even though Netanyahu still holds a loyal voter base, polls have indicated his coalition faces a tough path to securing the 61 seats needed to form a government. Opposition consolidation The opposition’s ability to unite could determine how serious the challenge becomes for Netanyahu. Figures such as former military leaders have emerged as potential alternatives, but opposition parties still face the challenge of building a common platform. Recent reporting suggests Netanyahu remains politically resilient, but rivals are attempting to capitalise on voter dissatisfaction. Watch | US-Iran war: Iran retaliates against US allies in Gulf after US strikes https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-iran-retaliates-against-us-allies-in-gulf-after-us-strikes-1783941110551/embed

Netanyahu’s political future faces a tough test ahead of the 2026 election, with public sentiment, internal pressures and shifting alliances set to play a crucial role in determining the outcome.

Israel Knesset election 2026: Biggest challenges threatening Netanyahu’s political future

In a major political development in Jerusalem, former prime ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid have announced a joint alliance ahead of upcoming elections.

The two leaders—who previously shared power in a historic coalition—are now merging forces to challenge longtime Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Their new political bloc aims to unite Israel’s divided opposition and present a stronger alternative to Netanyahu’s leadership.

A key campaign focus is expected to be accountability for the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, an issue that continues to shape public debate and political strategy.