Israel goes to the polls on 27 October, 2026 for a pivotal election that will decide far more than the next government. At issue is the identity of an increasingly divided state, the nature of its democracy, and the place of Israel on the world stage.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dominated Israeli politics for 20 years but goes into this election campaign with unprecedented challenges: the failure of security that enabled the October 7 attack; the long war and extended hostage crisis in Gaza; the judicial overhaul and democracy movement at home, and his own corruption trial which could land him in jail if he is no longer prime minister. Challenger Gadi Eisenkot came from nowhere to a strong showing in the early days of the campaign while Naftali Bennett remains a contender –but with a three-month lead-up, the long list of minor parties, and the complexity of Israeli coalitions, predicting an outcome is a mug’s game.

As the election campaign unfolds, this page will bring you updates on the issues, ideas and personalities that will determine the future of Israel, a future that will impact not only Israelis but also Palestinians, Diaspora Jews and all those who care about democracy, human rights and the pursuit of peace. We’ll examine how the tensions within Israeli society between Jew and Arab, secular and religious, right and left will impact the formation of the next government, introduce the key players, explain the shifting web of alliances, and watch whether democratic systems are being effectively safeguarded.

To understand the 2026 Israeli election, check back here regularly for new articles, follow our election podcast Politica: Israeli politics explained, attend our election events, and stream our video conversations below.