One Turn followed this story across 3 editions, from Jerusalem, Israel on October 19, 2026. Newest first.
Netanyahu is Israel's longest-serving prime minister. This is the first parliamentary election since the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023. Neither main party is expected to win a majority alone.
Israelis vote on Tuesday in a close election between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former army chief Gadi Eisenkot. On Friday, Netanyahu told Israelis to prepare for international banking sanctions. He suggested cryptocurrency could help get around them. AI-generated images have flooded the campaign.
Why it matters: The result will shape Israel's approach to the Iran war, Gaza, Lebanon and the West Bank.
US Vice President JD Vance said he was "not getting involved in Israeli elections," declining to follow President Trump's endorsement of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a week before Israelis vote. Netanyahu said he had discussed with Trump the need to topple Iran's government. More than half a million young Israelis are eligible to vote.
Why it matters: Israel's election will decide who leads the country during the ongoing conflict with Iran and its allies.
Trump publicly endorsed Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the 27 October election, and Netanyahu replied that they had 'a job to finish' together. Benny Gantz withdrew after polls showed his party below the threshold to enter the Knesset; AI deepfakes and bots are also playing a role in the campaign.
Why it matters: The outcome will shape Israel's approach to the Iran war and Gaza.