The body that runs Knesset elections under 1969 law
Israeli and French campaigns are leveraging summer travel and international outreach to mobilize voters, with overseas billboards and cruise-ship stops drawing attention. Analysts note heightened focus on election procedures, voter access, and integrity as key campaigns push to capture center-left and right-leaning blocks ahead of looming ballots.
Israel’s parties have submitted candidate lists ahead of the 2026 elections. Likud and Religious Zionist Party are among the last to file, while the Joint List also appears on the slate. Polls suggest no single party will secure a majority, and democracy concerns are rising among Israelis amid a shifting political landscape.
A new wave of polls shows no bloc winning a clear 61-seat majority in the 120-seat Knesset. Surveys indicate tightening odds for coalitions and room for potential cross-bloc deals, depending on small party performances ahead of the October vote.
The Central Elections Committee has moved to disqualify Arab-Israeli candidates Abu Shehadeh and Cassif, citing alleged support for armed struggle and negation of Israel’s Jewish and democratic character. Petitions, backed by coalition and opposition factions alike, are awaiting Supreme Court approval. Abu Shehadeh says the moves are attempts to silence Arab political voice.