ISRAEL ARAB MINORITY
Benjamin Netanyahu, at risk of losing power, steps up attacks on Israel's Arab parties
Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the recent high Arab voter turnout was influenced by voter fraud allegations. Arab leaders, including Ahmad Tibi, accused him of inciting fear to undermine election results. Authorities confirmed ongoing investigations into election integrity, but denied systematic compromise. Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasised the need to avoid tarnishing the entire Arab community involved in the democratic process.
Israel election deadlock: What are the 4 possible scenarios for forming a government?
Following a national vote, Benjamin Netanyahu remains as caretaker prime minister without a clear government. President Isaac Herzog will consult with party leaders to identify potential candidates for government formation. If unsuccessful, a new election could be triggered within approximately 100 days. Netanyahu may attempt to recruit opposition members to secure a right-wing majority. Alternatively, a unity government with opposition parties may also be considered as a last resort.
Israel's Arab parties set for kingmaker status, may hold key to Netanyahu's political future
Israel's Palestinian citizens are expected to secure a record number of seats in parliament after high voter turnout. Their participation was driven by concerns over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government and its policies. The Arab parties may block an outright victory for Netanyahu's coalition, which is short of a majority. Gadi Eisenkot's bloc also seems likely to require Arab support to form a stable government.
Israel Election Results 2026: Who won? Can Netanyahu form government or will Arab-Jewish alliance take power?
Who won Israel election results 2026: Israel election results 2026 have left Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing uncertainty over his political future, as his right-wing bloc falls short of the majority needed to form a government. Opposition parties could potentially secure enough support with Arab-led parties to establish an alternative coalition, raising the possibility of a historic Arab-Jewish political alliance. However, ideological differences, disagreements over security policies and coalition negotiations could complicate the process. Here is a look at who won the Israel election, whether Netanyahu can form the next government and what could happen if rival parties fail to reach an agreement.
Israel election sees highest turnout since 1999; exit polls show no clear majority
Israel's general election recorded its highest voter turnout at this hour since 1999, with participation reaching 77.7% by 10 pm, according to official data. However, exit polls suggested that neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc nor the opposition had secured the 61 seats needed for a Knesset majority. Arab parties could play a crucial role in coalition negotiations as Netanyahu faces a challenge from Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar Party.
Netanyahu calls for 'strong, right-wing' government, warns against Arab parties as exit polls put rivals in contention
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suffered a setback in the national elections, with exit polls suggesting his bloc and opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot's camp each won around 51 seats, while Arab-led parties secured about 18. The results leave the formation of a governing coalition uncertain, with negotiations expected to take weeks. High voter turnout, military conscription exemptions, security concerns and Netanyahu's long tenure emerged as key issues in the election.
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Israel election exit polls: Netanyahu faces rebuke, but no clear winner emerges
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced a setback in the national elections, with exit polls suggesting his bloc won 50 seats against 52-53 for the opposition and 17-18 for Arab-led parties. However, the results point to a potentially inconclusive outcome, with coalition negotiations likely to determine whether Netanyahu remains in power or Israel heads for another election.
Israel election may lead to deadlock, minority or unity government: Experts
A political party or coalition of parties must secure support of 61 lawmakers needed for a majority in the 120-member Knesset, Israel's parliament. Senior Israeli journalist and political commentator Yaron Deckel outlined three possible scenarios, saying the outcome would depend on the final seat tally and the ability of rival camps to secure support from smaller parties, including Arab-led groups.
Israel election: Netanyahu fights for political survival as October 7 fallout looms
Benjamin Netanyahu faces a critical election in Israel after the October 7 attacks by Hamas. Voters are assessing his record and the implications of military actions in Gaza and against Iran. Gadi Eisenkot, his main rival, criticizes Netanyahu's approach and proposes a new direction. Coalition dynamics could shift, particularly if Arab voters mobilize against Netanyahu's party. The outcome will significantly impact Israel's political landscape and international relations.
Israel elections 2026: 'Remember October 7' - Eisenkot appeals to voters as Netanyahu projects strong-man image
Polls have opened across Israel, with more than 7.3 million eligible voters set to choose their representatives amid a heated contest over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership. Opposition leaders, including Gadi Eisenkot, Avigdor Liberman and Yair Golan, have called for a change of government and accountability for the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. Netanyahu, meanwhile, has urged voters to back his Likud party, warning against an opposition-led government.
Israel election 2026: Who is challenging Benjamin Netanyahu for power?
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party is losing ground ahead of the upcoming elections. Various opposition figures are attempting to capitalize on public dissatisfaction with Netanyahu's leadership. However, the opposition parties have differing political views, making coalition building difficult. Several smaller parties could play a crucial role in determining government formation outcomes. The election results will significantly influence Israel's political direction and Netanyahu's potential future.
Beyond the ballot: Why Israel's next leader may stick to Netanyahu's doctrine
Israel's upcoming election is unlikely to change its aggressive stance towards Iran and Palestinian statehood. Even if Benjamin Netanyahu retains power, he may escalate military actions and settlement expansions. The election reflects a broader trend of hardline politics, where consensus exists against Palestinian statehood. Regional policymakers expect continued confrontations while underlying issues remain unaddressed. The situation may lead to prolonged tensions in the Middle East with unresolved conflicts persisting.
US drafted Rubio memo condemning UK over West Bank sanctions. It was never released
US officials prepared a statement condemning UK, France, and Canada for their plans related to Israeli settlements. The draft statement aimed to label their actions as contributing to antisemitism, but it was never released. Secretary of State Marco Rubio did not criticize these countries during a subsequent press conference. Polling indicates that public support for Israel has declined among younger Republicans.
BRICS adopts New Delhi Declaration: Inside the 140-point document on Global South's ambitions
BRICS leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration at the 18th summit, reaffirming their commitment to cooperation, multilateralism and a more representative global order. The document outlines India's 2026 chairship priorities, recognises partner countries' contributions and calls for greater participation of Emerging Markets, Developing Countries and Least Developed Countries in global governance.
From isolated rebels to regional force: How the Houthis took Bab al-Mandab
Yemen's Houthis have seized the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait, cementing their regional influence. This minority Zaidi community now controls Yemen's entire Red Sea coast. The group has fought numerous wars and formed alliances over decades. They are part of Iran's "Axis of Resistance" and target ships in the Red Sea. Their actions disrupt global commerce and pose threats to neighboring countries.
2 UAE tankers attacked while transiting Strait of Hormuz
The United Arab Emirates accused Iran of conducting drone strikes on two oil tankers navigating the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, activists delivered crucial aid to Palestinians facing aggression from Israeli settlers in the West Bank. In a separate conflict, Yemen's military thwarted Houthi incursions, and a drone was successfully intercepted over Irbil. Additionally, Jared Kushner is set to visit the Middle East for discussions regarding the Gaza conflict.
Israel elections 2026: The system, the rivals, and what's at stake
Israelis are scheduled to hold a national election on October 27. Polls indicate Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a clear defeat in this upcoming vote. His security credentials were significantly impacted by the October 7 Hamas attacks. Several rivals, including former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, are emerging as contenders. Israel's parliamentary system necessitates coalition governments, making elections complex.
Facing rockets, Arabs in northern Israel fume over lack of shelters
Residents of Arab towns in northern Israel face rocket threats with inadequate public shelters. Sakhnin's mayor highlights the absence of safe havens. Many schools remain open, and small concrete boxes serve as emergency shelters. These facilities are often in poor condition. A 2025 report indicates a significant shelter deficit for non-Jewish Israelis, particularly in northern Arab localities.
Arab Israeli star Maisa Abdel Hadi arrested over controversial post of Hamas attack on Israel
Arab Israeli singer Dalal Abu Amneh was also briefly detained this week over one of her social media posts.
Gaza attacks shatter sense of safety in Israel's Tel Aviv
Hamas rockets fell on Tel Aviv during the October 7 attacks, and alert sirens still send residents rushing to shelters daily -- and the strain on Israel's commercial hub is starting to show. Several rockets hit the Tel Aviv area when Hamas militants launched the most deadly attack suffered by Israel since its creation, with some 1,400 killed -- most of them civilians -- according to Israeli officials.
An Arab paramedic who treated Israelis injured by Hamas militants is remembered as a hero
Awad Darawshe, an Israeli Arab paramedic, was killed while trying to save lives during a Hamas attack on a music festival in southern Israel. Despite being ordered to evacuate, Darawshe chose to stay and bandage the injured, believing that his Arabic language skills could help mediate with the attackers. His family, part of Israel's Palestinian Arab minority, is proud of his bravery.
Israeli forces kill two Palestinians in West Bank: Israeli defence minister
"I commend the actions of the soldiers who eliminated two terrorists who opened fire on them near Elon Moreh" an illegal Jewish settlement near the West Bank city of Nablus, Gallant said on Twitter. He added the troops had "prevented an attack on Israeli civilians".
Israeli forces kill two Palestinians in West Bank: Israeli defence minister
Two Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces near the West Bank city of Nablus as they tried to attack an Israeli settlement. The Israeli army said the assailants had fired shots from a vehicle towards the Elon Moreh post. The troops responded by neutralising the two armed men and seizing two M-16 rifles and a handgun. At least 96 people, including Palestinians and Israelis, have died in the recent surge of violence in the region.
Israel's parliament dissolves, sets 5th election in 4 years
Yair Lapid, Israel's foreign minister and architect of the outgoing coalition government, will become the country's caretaker prime minister just after midnight on Friday. He will be the 14th person to hold that office, taking over from Naftali Bennett, Israel's shortest serving prime minister.
Who's who in Israel's new patchwork coalition government
Israel's new government is a hodgepodge of political parties that had little in common other than a desire to unseat veteran right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The coalition, sworn in on Sunday, spans the far left to far right and includes for the first time a small Islamist faction.
Radical Rabbi Meir Kahane's followers rise in Israel amid new violence
Today, his disciples march through the streets by the hundreds, chanting "Death to Arabs" and assaulting any they come across. This week, they took part in a wave of communal violence in Jerusalem and mixed cities across Israel in which Arabs and Jews viciously attacked people and torched cars.
Israeli troops mass at Gaza border amid rocket fire, air strikes and clashes in Israel
With concern growing that the violence that flared on Monday could spiral out of control, the United States is sending an envoy, Hady Amr, to the region. But efforts to end the worst hostilities in years appear so far to have made no progress.
UAE owner of Israeli club says 'door open' to Arab players
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and his Israeli partner, Moshe Hogeg, both vowed to turn the team _ which has gained notoriety for its racist fans and ban on Arab players _ into a model of coexistence.
UAE gets Israeli visa exemptions, a first for Arab world
Until recently, only Egypt and Jordan had full relations with Israel, but their nationals must still apply for entry permits. Some citizens of Arab states without formal ties have been admitted on a case-by-case basis for trade or pilgrimage.
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