How do Israel's elections work and who are the main contenders?
Israel is preparing for a pivotal election following the October 7 Hamas-led attacks and subsequent regional conflicts. Incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu faces a strong challenge from former war cabinet member Gadi Eisenkot in a race defined by security concerns and political accountability.
Why it matters
The outcome will determine Israel's leadership during a period of intense regional instability and ongoing military operations.
Image source, Reuters / Getty Images Image caption, Polling published on Friday suggests Gadi Eisenkot (left) is in a tight race with incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu (right)
Israel heads to the polls on Tuesday for what many view as one of the most pivotal elections in the country's history.
It's the first election since the 7 October 2023 Hamas-led attacks on Israel and its subsequent wars and conflicts across the region - in Gaza, Iran, Lebanon, Syria and Yemen.
Polling published on Friday puts incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu in a tight race with Gadi Eisenkot, a former head of the Israel Defense Forces, to become prime minister.
Eisenkot's popularity stems partly from his military credentials and his status as a relative political newcomer, having formed his Yashar Party only last year.
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