Fastest turnout in 45 years as Israelis head to polls

Israelis surged to the polls at the fastest rate in 45 years on Tuesday in what voters described as the most consequential election in their history.

In the first election since the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks, voters ‌are passionately engaged over the trauma of the country’s deadliest day, and the ensuing wars in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran, Reuters reported.

Policies of Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition have been divisive at home and have deepened Israel’s international isolation, but he has defended his record as the only leader with the mettle to face Israel’s foes.

Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving leader with 19 years in office, is an unmatched political survivor, and his nationalist politics are increasingly entrenched. Israel’s fragmented system makes it difficult for an array of opponents to force out his coalition of right-wing, far-right and ultra-Orthodox parties.

His main rival Gadi Eisenkot, a military ex-chief of staff and security hawk, aims to unseat him with the support of parties on the right and centre, as well as the rump of an increasingly marginalised left. Opinion polls show a close race, with neither leader facing an easy path to power.

Voters began casting ballots after polling stations opened at 7 a.m. (0500 GMT). The polls close at 10 p.m. (2000 GMT).

The Central Elections Committee reported that 16.7% of eligible ⁠voters had already cast their ballots within the first three hours, the fastest early turnout rate since 1981.