Israel’s Election Stalemate: Netanyahu Leads Without Clear Winner

In Tel Aviv, early exit poll celebrations erupted with sparkling wine as Israel’s general election results started to unfold. On Wednesday morning, with most votes counted, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a slight edge over his main rival Gadi Eisenkot, though the overall winner was not yet declared.

Netanyahu, leading the right-wing bloc, found himself facing opposition groups collectively holding more votes. This includes significant contributions from two Arab-led parties, indicating voter dissatisfaction with Netanyahu’s government. Both Netanyahu and Eisenkot addressed their supporters, each hinting at victory. Eisenkot, a former military chief, emphasized his commitment to diplomacy. Netanyahu spoke of the right-wing coalition’s strength among Zionists. However, the tight race suggests a period of political uncertainty as a coalition of 61 lawmakers in the Knesset is needed to form a government.

The Arab voter turnout, making up 20% of the population, was influential but both main parties resisted collaborations with Arab-led groups like the United Arab List and the Joint List. Israeli voter participation reached over 77%, a record high in two decades. This election followed the October 2023 Hamas-led attack, resulting in many expats returning to vote.

The Issues at Stake

Netanyahu’s leadership faced scrutiny after the watershed moment of the Hamas attack, which claimed nearly 1,200 Israeli lives and led to 251 hostages being taken to Gaza. Israel’s military response has been intense, with around 74,000 Palestinians reportedly killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. These events have strained Israel’s international relations and brought charges of genocide against Netanyahu.

Despite these challenges, many Israelis remain indifferent to Gaza’s suffering. A July 2025 poll indicated over 67% of Israelis were not troubled by Gaza’s plight.

Netanyahu’s Campaign

During his party’s election event, footage depicted military strength, including controversial images from Lebanon. Videos also promoted Netanyahu’s alliance with President Trump, indicating a possible future strike on Iran. Trump’s endorsement further bolstered Netanyahu’s campaign.

Netanyahu’s supporters remained steadfast; Ori Hazan, a young supporter, expressed determination: “We will keep fighting, and this is now the ideology.”

Next Steps

The narrow election margin means vote counting will continue, including military ballots. The leading party will then have six weeks to form a coalition government. Both political blocs are expected to engage in significant negotiations, as no party has secured a clear majority historically.

Eisenkot’s Yashar party blends centrist and moderate right figures, seeking partnerships across the political spectrum. Yair Golan from the Democrats party within Eisenkot’s bloc urged collaboration with Arab parties. Yet, post-Hamas attack tensions have increased wariness towards these alliances.

If no coalition is formed, Netanyahu may continue as caretaker Prime Minister until another election is held.