Israel Election Results: Exit Polls Show Deadlock Between Netanyahu and Eisenkot Blocs

Record Turnout Amidst Uncertainty

Voter participation reached a twenty-year high. The Central Elections Commission reported over 77% of eligible citizens voted. This marks a seven-point increase from the 2022 elections. The count is ongoing, with over 30% of ballots processed.

Palestinian Parties Gain Ground

Palestinian parties are projected to significantly increase their Knesset presence. Analysts predict they could win up to 18 mandates, up from 10 previously. If Eisenkot fails to secure a majority, he must negotiate with Palestinian factions. This could take weeks. Alternatively, he might govern as a minority through informal voting pacts.

Netanyahu’s Brief Victory Speech

Benjamin Netanyahu addressed supporters in Jerusalem just after 3am. The 77-year-old prime minister was unusually brief. He called for a „strong right-wing government” and emphasized unity among Jewish and Zionist parties. He referenced killed enemy leaders and hinted at a bombing campaign against Iran alongside President Trump. „Israel has a unique opportunity, with our partner President Trump, to eliminate the existential threat posed by Iran,” he stated.

Eisenkot Warns Against Political Exploitation

Gadi Eisenkot spoke earlier in Tel Aviv. He warned Netanyahu against using national security for political needs. Addressing the security establishment, he asserted they serve the state, not one man. He called Netanyahu an „interim prime minister, without mandate or the people’s trust.”

Supporters React

Opposition supporters exhaled upon the initial polls. However, tension rose as night progressed. With estimates shifting toward a numerical tie, France-Presse reported voters expressing alarm. Former Hamas hostage Ohad Ben Ami said, „Three years ago, the government abandoned us.” He noted that an Israeli citizen should not spend a year and a half in Hamas tunnels while deals were discussed.

Commission Rejects Extension Request

Polls were published after Netanyahu and other parties tried to extend voting hours. The Central Elections Commission rejected this, finding no systematic manipulation. Eisenkot told supporters that „the Israeli public voted against Netanyahu’s service as prime minister.” He added that a dignified leader would accept the lack of trust and announce his retirement from politics.