Voting has begun in the Israeli elections

Voting in the Israeli elections began at 7 AM local time and will close at 10 PM, with over 7 million eligible voters. Official results are expected after all votes are counted, likely on Thursday or Friday, while exit polls will be released after the polls close. The main question is whether Benjamin Netanyahu and his Likud party can form a government or if Gadi Eisenkot, a political newcomer and former IDF chief, can challenge him. Up to 12-13 parties may enter the Knesset, with Arab parties potentially playing a crucial role. This election follows the October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in significant casualties and escalated the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, making the situation in Gaza a key issue. The election also focuses on ensuring Israel's future in the new Middle Eastern landscape and resolving secular-orthodox tensions.