Knesset Election Expected to Spur Israeli Expatriate Return for Vote

Upcoming Knesset elections are anticipated to prompt a significant influx of Israelis living abroad to return to the country to cast their ballots. A survey conducted by Channel 14 indicates that nearly 67,000 eligible Israeli voters residing overseas intend to travel back for the elections. The poll revealed that approximately 79% of Israelis abroad plan to return to vote, a substantial increase compared to the 14% who reported similar intentions for the 2022 elections.

Geographically, the survey participants are primarily located in North America and Europe. The United States accounts for about 48% of these expatriates, with European countries including the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and Greece representing another 37%. Canada makes up 5%, Australia and New Zealand 2%, with the remainder spread across South America, East Asia, and South Africa.

The 'Fly&Vote' initiative appears to have played a crucial role in the decision-making process for many. Around 70% of respondents stated the project directly influenced their plans to return and vote, while an additional quarter indicated that the initiative provided them with more information about participating in the Knesset elections.

The online survey, which ran from October 12-21, 2026, included approximately 23,000 anonymous participants. Organizers cautioned that the results reflect the potential scale of travel for voting but are not statistically representative of all Israelis living abroad. Separately, the Central Elections Committee expects to announce the final results for the 26th Knesset elections on Thursday, October 29, at 12:00 PM, after counting all votes, including those from regular polling stations and special envelopes.