Women's Representation in Israeli Politics Hits New Low

The upcoming 26th Knesset is projected to have the lowest number of female lawmakers in years, with women currently occupying only about 25% of seats, down from a peak of 30% in the 24th Knesset. The situation is particularly stark as no woman is expected to lead a party, and the current coalition bloc may see the fewest female MKs. The Democratic Party, led by Yair Golan, aims for equal gender representation, including prominent figures like Naama Lazimi and Efrat Rayten on its list. Gideon Sa'ar's party, "Yashar!", intends to include many women, with former minister Orit Farkash-Hacohen and former mayor Tal Ohana among potential candidates. The Likud party faces pressure to increase female representation after only three women secured spots in the top 30 during primaries, with Minister Miri Regev being the highest-ranked. "Achva" (Unity) is expected to have a significant number of women, including former director-generals. "Yisrael Beiteinu" is recruiting new female candidates, though MK Sharon Nir will not run. In contrast, the Religious Zionist party's Orit Strock is in a strong position, while Otzma Yehudit, led by Itamar Ben-Gvir, has yet to confirm female placements. "Am Israel", a new party, announced four women among its initial 11 candidates, with former news anchor Netaly Shem Tov expected in a realistic spot. "HaBayit HaTzioni - HaMiluimnikim" has included Shira Shapira, mother of a fallen soldier, in its top four. The ultra-Orthodox parties, Shas and United Torah Judaism, will likely continue their tradition of not including women on their Knesset lists, adhering to rabbinical guidance. Arab parties face scrutiny over female representation, highlighted by the case of Jaafar Farah, who remains on the joint list despite sexual harassment allegations. While parties like Hadash and Maki emphasize women's rights, female candidates like Dr. Nahaya Washaḥi and Dr. Maha Karkabi are placed in lower, less realistic positions on the joint list.