Netanyahu Gains Ground as Israeli Election Leaves Parliament Deadlocked

2026, October 28

Israel / Palestine / United States

Israel’s election results increasingly favoured Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, although neither major political bloc appeared likely to secure a parliamentary majority. With approximately 86% of votes counted, Israeli broadcasters projected Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition would win 53 seats, compared with 48 for the opposition bloc led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot. Arab parties were projected to secure 19 seats, while turnout reached 77.7%, its highest level in more than two decades.

The results suggested Netanyahu could remain in office as caretaker prime minister while coalition negotiations continue. The election, the first since the Hamas-led attacks of October 2023, was dominated by security concerns, the wars involving Israel and disputes over Netanyahu’s leadership. The prospect of renewed Israeli military action against Iran also remained a significant regional concern.