Ben Friedhaim in Tel Aviv

Ben Friedhaim, a father in Tel Aviv, returned to Israel after Oct. 7 to vote.

“I think the army is very important when she turns 18”

Over 80,000 Israelis Returned

More than 80,000 Israelis returned to Israel after Oct. 7, unable to vote absentee.

Military Safety Focus

Friedhaim believes the military is crucial for his daughter's safety as she grows up.

“It is an important election, but israel is always going to be at war”

Right-Wing Political Landscape

Israel's political scene is dominated by right-wing Zionist candidates who oppose two-state solutions.

Key Challengers to Netanyahu

Gadi Eisenkot, Avigdor Lieberman, and Naftali Bennett are main challengers to Netanyahu.

Election Night Results

Initial exit polls showed Eisenkot's coalition leading Netanyahu, but results shifted toward Netanyahu.

Arab Parties' Historic Role

Arab parties gained influence but face right-wing resistance to secure a majority government.

Palestinian Concerns

5.6 million Palestinians in occupied territories cannot vote in Israel's election.

Hostel Owner Nazzal

Issa Nazzal, a hostel owner in Ramallah, fears no change in the occupation.

“I didn't see anything that makes me feel they can change”

Youthful Political Activism

Teenagers pass flyers supporting far-right politician Bezalel Smotrich in Jerusalem.

Netanyahu's Party Strategy

Netanyahu's party prepared claims of election fraud amid concerns about results.

Arab Party Campaign

Reem Hazzan runs the Joint List, aiming to remove Netanyahu, Smotrich, and Ben-Gvir.

“If we do not get rid of them, apartheid will continue and be deepened”

Palestinian Safety Fears

Sally Abed, a Palestinian mother, feels unsafe due to violence and war.

“I became a mother two years ago. I gave birth during a very active war”

Election Outcome Uncertainty

Israel's proportional representation system requires long negotiations to form a government.

Arab Parties' Limited Influence

Arab parties have historically secured only 15 seats and rarely join governing coalitions.

Future Uncertainty

Israel's next government may deepen divisions or fail to address Palestinian safety concerns.