Israel votes for parliament on 27 October: how the next government will be formed

Israel is holding parliamentary elections on 27 October 2026, its first nationwide vote for the Knesset since the Hamas attack of 7 October 2023. The election will shape whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can lead another government or whether the governing majority changes.

According to Reuters, polling stations open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 10:00 p.m. local time. The first television exit polls are expected after voting ends. Final counting is expected by 30 October, with official results due to be published on 4 November.

The Knesset has 120 seats allocated under a proportional system. Parties must win at least 3.25% of the vote to enter parliament. Because no single party usually secures a majority, smaller parties can play a decisive role in coalition negotiations.

After the results, President Isaac Herzog will consult the parties and task the politician most likely to command support with forming a cabinet. The first nominee has up to 42 days to form a government. As of early 27 October, no election winner has been announced.

Source: Reuters, 27 October 2026.

Illustrative photograph: engin akyurt / Unsplash (Unsplash License). The image was not taken at the event or inspection described.