Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is highlighting his image as a security leader as he secures public support from U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of the upcoming elections. Polls indicate that the ruling coalition may fall short of a parliamentary majority, leaving the formation of a coalition government uncertain.
According to Reuters and local media, Israel will hold elections on October 27 to select 120 members of the Knesset (parliament). This will be the first nationwide election since the surprise attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7, 2023, with evaluations of Netanyahu's government's security response and conduct of the war being key issues. Israel does not directly elect its prime minister; instead, post-election coalition negotiations among parties will determine the next government.
During a visit to an air force base, Netanyahu warned, "I tell our enemies: Do not test us. They will suffer a harsher blow than they have experienced so far." He emphasized the military's readiness and capability to strike when necessary.
The military has also heightened its alert ahead of the elections. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir ordered a freeze on all military leave starting October 22 to ensure a safe and orderly election. Additional troops will be deployed to the Central Command, which oversees the West Bank, where settler violence has surged.
Netanyahu received a boost from Trump's endorsement the day before, with the president declaring on Truth Social that Netanyahu is a partner for peace against Iran and offering his "full and complete support." Trump also suggested that if a leader other than Netanyahu were to take office, the U.S. might have to take on the responsibility of dealing with Iran.
This marks a shift from Trump's earlier stance, where he refrained from endorsing specific candidates. Netanyahu quickly shared the supportive post and expressed gratitude, using it to bolster his campaign. In contrast, Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the opposition Yashar party, acknowledged Trump's respect but emphasized that the decision lies with the Israeli people.
It remains uncertain whether the U.S. president's support will translate into a parliamentary majority. A Reuters poll indicated that the pro-Netanyahu camp is projected to secure 50 seats, while the anti-Netanyahu camp led by Eisenkot is expected to win 52 seats, with both falling short of the 61-seat majority.
The Arab parties, including Ra'am with 5 seats and the Joint List with 8 seats, are projected to hold a total of 13 seats, making their cooperation a crucial factor in government formation. However, Eisenkot opposes alliances with Arab parties, complicating coalition-building efforts for the opposition as well. If negotiations stall, Netanyahu may remain in office, potentially leading to a re-election next year.
As the election approaches, violence from settlers in the West Bank is increasing the Israeli government's diplomatic burdens. On October 16, Washington Post photographer Heidi Levin was assaulted by settlers while covering an olive harvest, sustaining serious injuries. The following day, a group of European diplomats visiting Taybeh was also attacked.
Israeli police arrested 10 individuals on October 19 during the investigation, but specific details of their involvement have not been disclosed. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned the attack on the journalist and called for the perpetrators to be punished.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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