Israel Sets October 27 Election Amid Right-Wing Party Shifts and Strategic Moves

Israel's next national election is officially scheduled for October 27, marking the start of a politically dynamic period with significant realignments among right-wing parties. The Likud party is currently reconsidering its strategy regarding right-wing allies, particularly the potential alliances between Otzma Yehudit, led by Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Religious Zionism, headed by Bezalel Smotrich. A senior Likud official indicated that a joint run between Ben-Gvir and Smotrich is unlikely due to concerns that such an alliance would alienate voters from both parties, potentially reducing their overall support. Instead, Likud is contemplating integrating Smotrich directly into its list to consolidate right-wing votes.

Meanwhile, retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter has announced his intention to run only with a completely new party, rejecting offers to join existing right-wing factions, including Likud. Winter aims to present a fresh political alternative composed of individuals outside the current political establishment, avoiding former Knesset members or ministers.

Knesset member Hili Tropper has set firm red lines ahead of the elections, explicitly refusing to support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in forming a coalition and opposing any government reliant on Arab parties. This stance distances him from both the current coalition and opposition blocs.

Recent polls reveal a shift in political momentum, with Gadi Eizenkot's "Yisrael" party surpassing Likud to become the largest party, holding 22 seats compared to Likud's 21. The opposition bloc has strengthened to 60 seats, while the coalition has weakened. Religious and ultra-Orthodox parties like Shas, United Torah Judaism, and Otzma Yehudit remain stable at eight seats each, but Religious Zionism has dropped to four seats.

On the security front, Shin Bet chief David Zini emphasized the agency's direct subordination to the Central Elections Committee chairman during the election period. President Isaac Herzog warned of foreign and internal digital threats aiming to disrupt the election's integrity and Israeli society.

As the October 27 election approaches, the political landscape remains fluid, with strategic decisions about party alliances and new formations poised to influence Israel's future government composition.