Fastest Turnout for Half a Century as Israelis Vote in Parliamentary Election

Policies of Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition have been divisive at home and have deepened Israel’s international isolation, while he has defended his record, calling himself the only leader with the mettle to face down Israel’s foes.

Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving leader with 19 years in office, is an unmatched political survivor, and his nationalist politics are increasingly entrenched. Israel’s fragmented system makes it difficult for an array of opponents to force out ​his coalition of right-wing, far-right and ultra-Orthodox parties.

His main rival Gadi Eisenkot, a military ex-chief of staff and security hawk, aims to unseat him with the support of parties on the right and centre, as well ​as the rump of an increasingly marginalised left. Opinion polls show a close race, with neither leader facing an easy path to power.

In a message to supporters more than five ⁠hours after polls opened, Netanyahu urged them to vote, saying turnout was high among his opponents on the left and among Israelis of Arab heritage, around a fifth of the country.

“We need it to be high too. You all ​need to stream to the polls,” he said. “This is a fateful moment.”