The historic elections will be a referendum on Netanyahu, Israel faces a deadlock

Israelis are heading to parliamentary elections seen as pivotal, three years after the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The campaign is dominated by security concerns and the establishment of an investigative commission regarding the attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership is a central issue, with opposition parties promising to change direction. The elections occur amid deep societal divisions over accountability for the attack and military service obligations for ultra-Orthodox Jews. Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief, leads a centrist party and advocates for political reforms and national unity. The opposition aims to prevent Netanyahu's return to power, while the Likud party emphasizes national security and defends its policies. The elections also highlight tensions over military service exemptions for ultra-Orthodox Jews, a contentious issue within Netanyahu's coalition.