Israel’s October 27 Election: Arab and Ultra-Orthodox Parties as Decisive Kingmakers Amid Far-Right Surge
Israelis vote on October 27 in a deadlocked race where neither the Netanyahu-led coalition nor the opposition bloc can secure the 61 seats needed for a majority. Arab-led parties, projected to win 13 seats, and ultra-Orthodox factions are positioned as critical kingmakers. Despite public rhetoric excluding these groups, both major camps may rely on their support to form governments. The election follows a significant rightward shift among young voters, driven by fear and the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 attacks, while center-left parties face physical harassment and declining support.