Israeli voters are expected to elect a more rightwing Knesset, with far-right parties gaining traction among younger voters and shifting political dynamics.
Historically, efforts to block far-right figures like Meir Kahane have shaped Israeli politics, but his political successors may now hold significant influence in upcoming elections. A recent poll predicts the Jewish Strength party, led by national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, could win nine seats in the 27 October election, surpassing the remnants of the once-dominant Labor party.
More than 500,000 new voters have reached voting age since 2022, with three-quarters of first-time Jewish voters identifying as right or centre-right. This shift follows the collapse of the Oslo peace process and the 2023 Hamas attacks, which left many Israelis disillusioned with prospects for a political resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Why it matters
Younger Israeli voters, shaped by recent conflicts and political rhetoric, are driving a shift toward rightwing policies that may redefine the country's future governance.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The outcome of the 27 October election will determine the composition of the next Knesset and the direction of Israeli policy on key issues such as the Israel-Palestine conflict.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.