Russian-Speaking Israelis Favor Yisrael Beiteinu in Poll Ahead of Elections

A large-scale electoral survey conducted by Newsru.co.il, polling 3,725 eligible voters, indicates that security and external threats are the paramount concerns for Israeli citizens, outweighing economic and religious issues. While the survey reflects the audience of a specific website, its long-term trends offer insight into the current political landscape.

The poll reveals a high degree of voter certainty, with 77% having decided on a party and another 18% intending to vote but undecided. Yisrael Beiteinu, led by Avigdor Lieberman, holds a significant lead with 32% support among the surveyed audience. The Likud party, headed by Benjamin Netanyahu, follows with 18%, while Bayit Yehudi (Naftali Bennett) garnered 9%, and Yachad (Gadi Eisenkot) received 8%.

Other parties included in the survey are Zionut HaDatit Ve'Zehut with 6% support after a merger of right-wing and national forces, HaDemocratim (Yair Golan) with 5% for a united center-left bloc, and Otzma Yehudit (Itamar Ben-Gvir) with 3%.

When choosing a political party, 62% of respondents prioritize the party leader's personality, and 61% consider national security. Specifically, 34% identified security and military threats as their main priority for the upcoming elections, with economics and religious-state issues each cited by 13%.

In the race for prime minister, Avigdor Lieberman leads with 28% of the vote, closely followed by Benjamin Netanyahu at 27%. Naftali Bennett and Gadi Eisenkot received 14% and 11% respectively.

Regarding the formation of a future government, 38% of respondents favor a broad national unity government. A coalition of change led by Eisenkot is supported by 30%, while 18% back a traditional right-wing bloc under Netanyahu. The Russian-speaking sector is expected to play a crucial role, potentially influencing 15-17 Knesset seats.