https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/netanyahu-defies-exit-polls-to-take-lead-in-israeli-electionContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/netanyahu-defies-exit-polls-to-take-lead-in-israeli-electionhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/netanyahu-defies-exit-polls-to-take-lead-in-israeli-election#u167884Sun, 01 Nov 2026 12:16:14 +0000Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defied exit polls to take the lead following the countrys general election, though his Likud party fell short of securing an outright majority in the 120-seat Knesset. The election outcome leaves Israel politically deadlocked, with projections placing Likud ahead of former military chief Gadi Eisenkots Yashar party. Analysts warn that the resulting political stalemate and Netanyahus narrow position could pave the way for renewed military strikes against Iran. Netanyahus caretaker role may limit certain actions, but observers note it does not completely