Israeli politician and long-time security and infrastructure minister, leader of Yisrael Beiteinu
Israel's election scene has intensified as rival parties push security and national service reforms. Eisenkot's Yashar gains in polls amid debates over security doctrine and universal service, while Netanyahu faces AI-assisted attacks and controversy over ultra-Orthodox exemptions. The mix of new coalitions and legal challenges shapes the race.
The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement and a bilateral safeguards pact, but President Donald Trump has said the deal is conditional on Riyadh normalising relations with Israel. Officials and commentators are disputing whether the White House and Energy Department coordinated the announcement. Critics warn the pact weakens non‑proliferation safeguards and could spur a regional arms race.
Haaretz has published book excerpts saying UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed warned Benjamin Netanyahu in late September 2023 that Hamas was planning a major operation. Haaretz says Netanyahu reacted calmly and did not inform Israel's security chiefs; Netanyahu has denied the call, instructed lawyers to sue Haaretz, and rivals have seized the story ahead of the Oct. 27 election.
NAZA, an 80‑minute documentary by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, has premiered at the Venice Film Festival, won a special jury prize and prompted sustained criticism from Israeli officials. The film presents anonymous testimony from 24 Israeli military and intelligence personnel alleging AI‑assisted targeting and frequent civilian deaths in Gaza; Israel’s defence establishment has rejected the claims and ordered inquiries.
Palestinian olive farmers have faced widespread uprooting of trees by the Israeli army in Deir Nidham, Deir Nizam, and surrounding areas. Harvest season, which typically starts in October, is now overshadowed by fear and access barriers as settler attacks and military operations intensify. Officials estimate a harvest of about 21,000 tonnes, but access to land remains a critical obstacle.
Arab-led lists are projected to win seats in Israel’s upcoming elections, potentially becoming kingmakers. Opponents of Netanyahu risk losing coalition leverage, while the opposition resists forming government with Arab parties. The race remains tight with both blocs facing pressure over Gaza policy and Palestinian statehood.