Voting records from predominantly Haredi communities indicate that since Itamar Ben-Gvir entered politics in 2019, support for him in those areas has increased over Israel’s four successive elections – though he still lagged behind the established ultra-Orthodox parties.
In Israel’s fragmented political system, neither Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud party nor Lapid’s centrist Yesh Atid is expected to capture enough seats in parliament to form a new government. Instead, each hopes to secure the required 61-seat majority in the Knesset, or parliament, with the support of smaller political allies.
The buzz surrounding former chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot's decision to enter the political fray and the intense wagering surrounding the question of his choice of political party now appear to have been completely unfounded. On the eve of the elections, it is probably safe to say that the strong comradeship of ex-IDF generals leading him to a political bond with Benny Gantz has not delivered the goods.
Defense Minister and head of the State Party Benny Gantz speaks at Israel Hayom's election conference.
Speaking at Israel Hayom's election conference, Yair Lapid says the upcoming Nov. 1 vote will mark the choice between the future and the past.
Although the government systems are completely different, both are paralyzed by a great crisis.
Merav Michaeli speaks on a range of topics at Israel Hayom's election conference.
"Michaeli's dangerous incitement repeatedly crosses red lines and legitimizes harming me," says Itamar Ben Gvir after the Labor leader links him and Netanyahu to the assassination of the late prime minister.
Regardless of which bloc assumes power in the upcoming election, the future leadership will need to focus on the completion of military preparedness against the Iranian threat, the possibility of limiting aerial freedom in Syria and the rebuilding of public trust in the IDF.
Israel Hayom's last pre-election survey sheds light on what the public thinks on matters most gripping ahead of the Nov. 1 vote.