Israel’s 2026 general election has triggered a political showdown, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party raising allegations of electoral fraud as Arab-led parties emerge with a projected historic 19 seats in the 120-member Knesset.
With neither major bloc securing the 61 seats required for a parliamentary majority, the results have set the stage for intense coalition negotiations.
According to preliminary results reported on October 29, Netanyahu’s right-wing and ultra-Orthodox bloc was projected to win 53 seats, while the opposition bloc led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot was projected to secure 48.
The Arab-led Joint List and Ra’am parties were projected to win a combined 19 seats, potentially giving them a decisive role in determining the next government.
Likud Alleges Election Fraud
Netanyahu and his Likud party have raised allegations of vote manipulation, intimidation, bribery and other electoral irregularities, particularly amid strong turnout among Arab voters. The party has called for an investigation into the alleged malpractice.
However, the allegations remain unproven, and no evidence establishing widespread electoral fraud was cited in the reports. Election officials have continued processing ballots, including special double-envelope ballots cast by soldiers, prisoners, diplomats and other eligible voters voting away from their designated polling stations.
Arab Parties Emerge as Potential Kingmakers
The projected 19 seats represent a historic high for Arab-led parties, significantly increasing their parliamentary influence. Their support could potentially help the opposition assemble a majority, although cooperation remains politically contentious.
Some opposition figures have urged their bloc to reconsider its reluctance to work with Arab parties in order to prevent Netanyahu from retaining power. However, such an arrangement could also alienate potential coalition partners.
Eisenkot Faces a Crucial Coalition Decision
Eisenkot now faces a difficult choice: explore cooperation with Arab-led parties, seek an agreement with other political rivals, or risk a prolonged deadlock.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu remains better positioned to attempt government formation as the leader of the largest bloc, despite falling short of a majority. President Isaac Herzog is expected to consult political factions before deciding whom to task with forming the next government.
With coalition arithmetic still unresolved, Israel faces weeks of political uncertainty, with the final outcome depending on negotiations and the completion of the vote count.