World Watches Israeli Elections Amid Deep Divisions and Shifting Alliances

With less than three days until election day, Israel's upcoming elections are drawing significant global attention. International media outlets are closely following the political developments, noting the impact of events such as the judicial overhaul protests, the October 7th massacre, and the ensuing multi-front war, including confrontations with Iran that affected global energy markets. Coverage includes profiles of key figures like Gadi Eisenkot, analyses of the deepening societal rifts, and assessments of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's standing. Many international reports frame these elections as decisive for Israel's future, with some highlighting the ethnic dimension and the influence of Israelis returning to vote.

CNN featured a profile of Gadi Eisenkot, positioning him as the leading candidate for the "Change Bloc." The report emphasized that Eisenkot's primary asset is simply "not being Netanyahu," a factor resonating with many voters. His Mizrahi heritage, highlighted by a controversial comparison made by Channel 14 presenter Yinon Magal, was also noted as a significant, though often understated, appeal. Despite Eisenkot's limited political experience, his four-decade military career, culminating in his role as Chief of Staff, is a key part of his narrative. The article mentions his entry into politics following the war and the personal tragedy of his son's death, which fuels his commitment. While polls show Eisenkot leading, the complexities of forming a government, including the possibility of a minority government, remain challenges. His style and demeanor are contrasted with Netanyahu's, with Eisenkot's campaign emphasizing unity under the slogan "Yashar!" (Straight!), a reference to a hostage's plea. However, his security stances are noted as similar to Netanyahu's.

The Wall Street Journal focused on the ethnic dimension, framing the election around the contrast between Netanyahu's Ashkenazi background and Eisenkot's Mizrahi heritage. The report suggests that Mizrahi voters, traditionally leaning towards Likud since Menachem Begin's victory in 1977, have become a pivotal demographic. The article explores the historical context of Mizrahi immigrants' experiences in Israel and the impact of intermarriage over generations. It notes that Eisenkot, despite his background, downplays his heritage, stating that his origin is not a reason to vote for him and that he hasn't experienced discrimination. The piece also touches on the potential challenge for Likud, especially with campaigns like "Dialna" (Our Home), and suggests that Mizrahi voters who trust state institutions might be decisive, seeing Eisenkot as "one of us." The Journal concludes that Mizrahis have "already won" due to the political map shifting rightward on security issues post-October 7th.

The Guardian examined Eisenkot's efforts to differentiate himself from Netanyahu, the dominant figure in Israeli politics for decades. The article questions whether Netanyahu, despite his political resilience and narrative-shaping abilities, can overcome the challenges of his recent term, including the failures leading up to and during the October 7th attack, the ongoing war, and the stalled judicial overhaul. The report notes that the "Bibi" versus "Anti-Bibi" divide persists, even with the rise of figures like Itamar Ben-Gvir, whom the Guardian describes as a "rising moon" compared to Netanyahu's "sun." The article also raises questions about Netanyahu's continued candidacy after the October 7th disaster and his unfulfilled promises, such as eliminating Hamas and dismantling Iran's nuclear program. Despite these issues, Netanyahu's decades-long support base and political acumen are highlighted as key to his enduring influence.

The New York Times also focused on Netanyahu's ability to reinvent himself, questioning if it would be enough to secure victory in the upcoming elections. The report describes the Israeli public as "tired and polarized" after years of political turmoil and war. It acknowledges that the October 7th massacre will forever tarnish Netanyahu's legacy as "Mr. Security." The Times suggests Netanyahu has "reinvented himself" by adopting a prolonged war strategy, differing from previous doctrines, and has overseen the expansion of settlements and an increase in nationalist crime. Journalist Mazal Mualem is quoted saying Netanyahu "understood he had to change if he wanted to survive politically and as a historical figure," presenting a "new Bibi." The elections are described as potentially "the most fateful in the country's history," with Netanyahu seen as a "political master" despite the stain of October 7th. The article points to the heavy cost of the war on the public and economy, societal polarization, and Netanyahu's efforts regarding Haredi draft exemptions and the judicial overhaul as significant challenges. The Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera declared these elections "the most important in Israel's nearly 80-year history," citing the October 7th massacre, the ongoing multi-front war, potential escalation with Iran, and demographic changes. The opposition views the current situation as "now or never." The Telegraph reported on "tens of thousands of Israelis returning to vote." Corriere della Sera framed the election as a referendum on Netanyahu's global significance and his fight for political survival against corruption charges. Eisenkot is portrayed as less charismatic than Netanyahu, relying on pragmatism and a desire for normalcy, while Netanyahu is depicted as a "political magician" fighting to avoid prison.

Key issues expected to dominate post-election discussions include the Haredi draft, the judicial overhaul, and the appointment of Supreme Court justices. The article notes that while Netanyahu is a "political magician" fighting for his survival, Eisenkot is seen as a pragmatic figure aiming for a return to normalcy.