Israel Election Predicted to Shift Right Amidst Conflict
Source reports published 18 Oct 2026, 10:00 am – 19 Oct 2026, 10:00 am AEST
The Israeli election is expected to see a significant shift to the right, driven by young voters and a broader sense of insecurity following the October 7th attacks and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Key parties, including Ra’am and the Joint List, could be crucial in determining the outcome.
What happened
- A significant shift to the right is predicted in Israel’s upcoming election, fueled by a generational change in voters and the ongoing conflict following the October 7th attacks.
- Polls show that three-quarters of first-time Jewish voters identify as right or center-right, a trend highlighted by analysts like Dahlia Scheindlin, who notes a ‘downplaying of anything to do with democracy, universal values or human rights.’
- This trend is amplified by a sense of fear and hopelessness among younger Israelis, many of whom believe there is no solution to the conflict.
- Itamar Ben-Gvir’s Jewish Strength party is forecast to win nine seats, reflecting this broader rightward movement.
- The opposition, led by figures like Yair Golan, are predicted to secure eight seats.
- Ra’am and the Joint List, representing Palestinian citizens of Israel, could be kingmakers, potentially forming a coalition regardless of the outcome.
- Yossi Mekelberg, a Middle East analyst, suggests that Netanyahu would work with Ra’am if it meant staying in power, while the opposition’s reliance on the Arab-led parties is viewed as a strategic gamble.
- The election’s outcome will significantly shape Israel’s future, regardless of who ultimately forms the government.
Original reporting
- Guardian: ‘There’s a lot of racism, a lot of hatred’: Far right gains predicted as Israel heads to the polls
2026-10-18T00:00:00+00:00 - Al Jazeera: The kingmakers who could determine Israel’s election
2026-10-19T00:00:00+00:00