Netanyahu races to unify Israel's right wing in bid to avert election defeat

Live updates

1. 5d ago

   Netanyahu seeks right-wing unity as Israel prepares for October 27 election

   Benjamin Netanyahu is working to unify Israel's right-wing factions to prevent an election defeat. Thirty-eight parties have submitted their final Knesset slates for the October 27 vote. Early polling following the slate deadline indicates a deadlock, with the pro-Netanyahu bloc tied with the opposition. Meanwhile, a separate poll suggests a coalition led by Eisenkot could secure 61 seats without needing support from Arab parties for the first time.

   Why it matters

   The upcoming election determines the composition of the Knesset and the ability to form a stable government. Persistent deadlocks in polling highlight the deep political division within the country. The race for 61 seats is the critical threshold for a governing majority.

   What is confirmed

   • Israel will hold elections on October 27.
   • Thirty-eight parties submitted final Knesset slates for the election.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Benjamin Netanyahu is attempting to unify the right wing to avoid defeat.

   What to watch next

   • Official voter turnout and results on October 27
   • Changes in polling as the campaign progresses toward the vote
   Sources used for this update (7)

   1. The Jerusalem Post — Eisenkot-led coalition has pathway to 61 seats without Arab parties for first time - poll
   2. Reuters — Netanyahu races to unify Israel's right wing in bid to avert election defeat
   3. The New York Times — Israel’s Election Campaign Is Heating Up. Here’s Who’s Running.
   4. The Economist — A messy election ahead for Israel
   5. Haaretz — 38 parties submit final Knesset slates for Israel's October 27 election
   6. The Times of Israel — Election polls show little change, continued deadlock after party slates finalized
   7. Haaretz — In first polls since slates closed, pro-Netanyahu bloc tied with opposition
   confidence 80%