Russian Ambassador Cites Jewish Holidays for Early Duma Election in Israel

The Russian Ambassador to Israel, Anatoly Viktorov, has explained the decision to hold parliamentary elections for the State Duma in Israel ahead of schedule. Viktorov stated that the vote on September 17 was moved up out of respect for Jewish traditions. He cited the proximity of Shabbat and the upcoming observance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, a significant date in the Jewish calendar, making it difficult for polling station commissions to operate fully during those times. The decision was made in coordination with the Central Election Commission.

Viktorov emphasized that the primary objective was not to ensure high voter turnout, but rather to provide all eligible Russian citizens residing in Israel the opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote. He asserted that the Russian diplomatic missions successfully informed the electorate through various channels, including local Russian-language television, press, and the embassy's own information resources. The ambassador himself appeared on a Russian-language TV channel to disseminate information.

Voting took place in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa. While the embassy has not publicly disclosed the turnout figures, a short video report showed participants including individuals in religious attire and kippahs, suggesting a diverse range of voters participated.