Israel’s parliamentary elections are underway, with voting taking place across the country until 10pm local time. Polling suggests the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could lose its majority, while opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot emerges as the front-runner. Tens of thousands of Israelis who typically cannot vote abroad have returned to cast their ballots in person, as Israeli law generally mandates voting within the country. The results could reshape the political landscape following a closely watched election.
Most polling shows prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition will lose its majority, with Gadi Eisenkot the leading opposition contender What you need to know about Israel’s electionAcross Israel, voting is now under way, with most polling places open until 10pm local time (8pm GMT).Tens of thousands of Israelis living abroad have flown in for the elections, according to Aid Coalition, a US-based nonprofit focused on strengthening Israel’s democracy. Israeli law generally requires citizens to vote in person in the country, with narrow exceptions for diplomats and certain official emissaries abroad. Continue reading...