This 'Arab' Factor Holds Critical Balance Of Power In Israel Elections
Israel's upcoming election hinges on the balance of power held by Arab-led political parties, as neither major camp is guaranteed a governing majority. The role of these parties remains a sensitive political issue, complicating coalition-building efforts.
Why it matters
The outcome of this election will determine the future direction of Israeli policy amidst ongoing regional security concerns and internal political fragmentation.
The question hovering over Israel's election on October 27 is not simply whether Benjamin Netanyahu can stay on as prime minister. It is whether either of the rival camps could manage to get the numbers to govern, and what happens if neither can without the help of Arab political parties.In Jerusalem, where the campaign takes place against a backdrop of war, security concerns and deep political divisions, the arithmetic of the election is taking on an ever greater importance. In Israel, the 120-seat Knesset needs a majority of 61 seats to form a government. If neither camp reaches that threshold, parties that have been on the periphery of the mainstream political contest could find themselves in a position to shape the outcome.But the campaign has a striking inconsistency.
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