Israelis will vote on 27 October in the first national election since the Hamas-led attacks of 7 October 2023 and the devastating war in Gaza that followed. The vote comes as the country remains divided over its political future and the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
\n\nCritics accuse Netanyahu of failing to prevent the 7 October attacks and undermining Israel's democracy. However, the prime minister retains a strong base of support among voters.
\n\nThe opposition is led by former military chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot. It includes groups spanning the political spectrum, from secular left-wingers and nationalist West Bank settlers to centrist politicians and Palestinian Arab factions. Despite their differences, they share a common objective: removing Netanyahu from power.
\n\nHere are four possible scenarios that could emerge after the votes are counted:
\n\nAfter the election, President Isaac Herzog will consult party leaders, who will recommend a candidate to form the next government. Herzog will then give the mandate to the person he believes has the best chance of assembling a coalition.
\n\nFor Eisenkot, the most obvious route to power would be an alliance with Netanyahu's other opponents, known as the "change bloc". The group includes right-wing politicians such as…
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/business-economy
