Haredi political alliance in Israel, formed in 1992 from Agudat Yisrael and Degel HaTorah
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 Times of Israel reports ongoing confrontations within Israel's ruling coalition over ultra-Orthodox exemptions from military service. Lawmakers have pushed through measures while facing opposition from a shrinking band of dissenters; the issue shapes the political landscape ahead of the upcoming election.
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.
Netanyahu has faced sustained political pressure as he heads into a parliamentary election. Critics say he relies on victimhood rhetoric and populist tactics to deflect scrutiny, amid new reporting and shifts in opposition dynamics that could reshape Israel’s political landscape.
A video shows Rabbi Dov Lando, 96, the spiritual leader of Degel HaTorah, condemning Zionism and questioning Israel’s state, while also saying ultra-Orthodox service exemptions are tied to politics. The remarks come three weeks before the October 27 election and add fuel to debates over Haredi military exemptions and the government’s stability.
Israel has warned it will seize further southern Lebanon territory and evacuate Beirut’s Dahieh district if Hezbollah aligns with Iran in an attack on Israel. The remarks come amid rising tensions as Hezbollah eyes a broader confrontation, with Israel preparing a potential ground offensive in the south.
Arab citizens of Israel may hold the pivotal balance in post-election governance as polls show neither bloc reaching a majority. Arab lists seek influence while Gaza and settlements shape the campaign, with turnout seen as the key to forming a government.
Arab-Israeli parties Ra’am and the Joint List are contesting the October 27 election with aims to influence a future government. They propose conditional cooperation with opposition to counter perceived discrimination and crime in Arab society, while navigating red lines around Palestinian statehood and security. Polls show potential to be kingmakers in a tightly contested race.