Likud Minister Urges Israelis Abroad Not to Vote Solely to Oust Netanyahu

Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi of the Likud party criticized Israelis living abroad who plan to return to Israel solely to vote in the upcoming elections on October 27. He urged them not to come just to influence the election results against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Karhi stated, "The left is trying to bring masses from abroad. Those who do not live here should not come just because of their 'anyone but Bibi' stance to try to change the government."

In a radio interview on 103 FM, Karhi was asked why Israelis abroad are not allowed to vote from overseas, as is common in other countries. He responded that only those living in Israel should influence its future, but welcomed any Jew to immigrate and participate in building the country. Israeli law currently requires citizens abroad to physically return to Israel to vote, as absentee voting is not permitted for most citizens.

The issue has sparked debate recently, with some Israelis abroad sharing screenshots of flight tickets purchased to return for voting. Earlier this month, Likud petitioned the election committee against an initiative to provide free flights for voters abroad, claiming it constituted an undue benefit. Meanwhile, some Israelis abroad reported difficulties registering in the voter registry and locating their polling stations, with government bots failing to provide clear information on their registration status or voting locations.