Israel’s Election Results Awaited as Netanyahu’s Likud Remains Largest Party

Israel’s election night saw the highest voter participation in more than 25 years, with nearly 78% of eligible voters casting ballots, according to the Central Elections Committee. As counting progressed, no party secured an outright majority in the 120‑seat Knesset, prompting expectations of extended coalition negotiations.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party recorded 20.8% of the vote, remaining the largest single party but falling short of the 23.4% share it achieved in the 2022 election. Centrist challenger Gadi Eisenkot’s Yashar party obtained 16.4%, positioning it as the main opposition force in the emerging parliamentary landscape.

Arab‑led parties achieved a historic level of support, reflecting the 20% share of Israel’s population they represent. Netanyahu publicly rejected any coalition that would include these parties, describing such an alliance as “treasonous.” Eisenkot, however, indicated a willingness to consider partnerships with Arab parties if they recognize Israel as a Jewish state and condemn Hamas as an extremist organization.

Analysts note that the far‑right National Security Minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir’s support appears to have declined, while the president, Isaac Herzog, is expected to task the leader of the largest party—currently Likud—with forming a government. The president is not obligated to follow that convention, leaving room for alternative coalition configurations.

If coalition talks fail, Israel may face another election as early as next year, adding to the five elections held between April 2019 and November 2022. The final results, including absentee ballots from military personnel and diplomats, are expected in the coming days.