Israel Prepares for Elections Amidst Threats, Hamas Trial Begins
Translated & summarized from Mignews by baba
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran against interfering with Israel's upcoming elections on October 25, 2026, while also highlighting the existential threat of Iran's nuclear program. Preparations are complete for the elections, with 7.3 million citizens eligible to vote. A special tribunal for the October 7 attacks has appointed Zhanna Modzgrishvili as chief prosecutor, and fuel prices are set to rise due to an expiring tax break.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Prime Minister Netanyahu warned Iran of a "crushing blow" for attempting to interfere with Israeli elections.
- Israel is set for general elections on October 25, 2026, with 7.3 million citizens eligible to vote.
- A special tribunal for the October 7 attacks has appointed Zhanna Modzgrishvili as chief prosecutor.
- Fuel prices in Israel are expected to increase by nearly one shekel per liter starting November 1.
- Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted the existential threat posed by Iran's nuclear program.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning to Iran on October 25, 2026, stating that Tehran would face a "crushing blow" if it attempted to interfere with Israel's upcoming Knesset elections. Speaking from an "Arrow" missile defense position, Netanyahu declared the army fully combat-ready and vowed a decisive response to any provocations, urging Iran "not to test us." Earlier, Netanyahu had shared an image of a nuclear explosion over Tel Aviv, highlighting what he described as an existential threat from Iran's nuclear program, which he believes overshadows domestic disputes and necessitates immediate action.
Israel finalized preparations for its general elections, scheduled to take place in two days. A total of 7.3 million citizens are eligible to vote. Security will be maintained by 100,000 personnel and thousands of surveillance cameras across 12,000 polling stations. The election campaign budget is approximately $222 million.
A special tribunal in Jerusalem will commence proceedings for the October 7 attacks, with retired Colonel Zhanna Modzgrishvili appointed as the chief prosecutor. The tribunal's unique rules permit the death penalty and prohibit any exchange of convicted individuals.
Fuel prices in Israel are expected to rise significantly on November 1, 2026, as a tax discount on 95-octane gasoline expires. The price per liter could increase by nearly one shekel, exceeding 8.7 shekels. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has not yet signed a decree to extend the discount, with the final tariff to be determined by the end of the week.
In related international news, French Foreign Minister warned of the consequences of escalation between the United States and Iran, while Iran reportedly increased security measures and established checkpoints in major cities. Separately, Donald Trump accused a former US president of strengthening Tehran.
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