Summary
The recent Israeli elections have drawn significant attention as voter turnout reached record levels, particularly among Arab citizens. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, both claimed victory as polls closed, despite the results being too close to call. Analysts suggest that this election is pivotal, representing a potential turning point in Netanyahu's long tenure and the future direction of the country.
Dov Waxman, a political expert from UCLA, highlights the unprecedented mobilization of Arab voters, who typically participate at lower rates. This surge reflects their concerns about the current government's handling of issues such as rising crime in their communities. While Netanyahu's Likud party appears to have secured the most seats, it has lost a significant number compared to previous elections, indicating a possible repudiation of his leadership. The outcome may hinge on whether Eisenkot can form a government with support from Arab parties, a move that could reshape Israeli politics.
As the situation unfolds, Netanyahu's ability to maintain power remains uncertain. He has historically been a skilled political tactician, but the mounting pressures from voters dissatisfied with his government could complicate his efforts. The political landscape is further complicated by ongoing tensions with Iran, which may influence the formation of a new government and the future of Israeli democracy.
Show Notes
Israelis came out in record numbers to vote but as the polls closed it was too close to call. Although that didn't stop Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main rival Gadi Eisenkot both claiming success. Today, Dov Waxman, presidential chair in modern Jewish studies at UCLA on what happens next, the surge in support for Arab parties and whether Netanyahu could still cling to power. Featured: Dov Waxman, Presidential chair in modern Jewish studies at UCLA
More from ABC News Daily
Is Donald Trump about restart the fighting with Iran? Ahead of the midterm elections next week, the US President has been raising the prospect of renewed attacks that could begin after Americans vote. Today, Cole Bucy, former CIA analyst and former director for Iran at the US National Security Council on why Trump might have little option but to escalate the conflict. Featured: Cole Bucy, former CIA analyst and former Director for Iran at the US National Security Council
Did you know we are in the midst of a new 'woke' era? It's being dubbed 'Woke 2.0' and unlike 'Woke 1', it's thought to be winning over voters for the Democrats ahead of next week's midterm election. Today, staff writer at the Atlantic magazine, Jonathan Chait on what he believes woke is and why campaigning against it won't win Trump any votes this time. Featured: Johnathan Chait, staff writer at The Atlantic magazine
Unemployment is on the rise, interest rates are up, the price of fuel is soaring and everything just costs more. Recent polling shows voters are blaming the Prime Minister and his Treasurer for the tough times with their popularity rating taking a dive. Today, senior economic correspondent for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Shane Wright on how the governments losing control of the cost-of-living narrative. Featured: Shane Wright, senior economic correspondent at The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age
It’s been a fortnight of extraordinary setbacks for US relations with Ukraine. Donald Trump has struck a deal to buy Russian diesel, delivering a financial boost to Vladimir Putin’s war effort, he briefly interrupted intelligence sharing with Ukraine, while his special envoy Steve Witkoff has praised Putin as a 'humanitarian.' Today, CNN's chief national security analyst, Jim Sciutto on what Trump is up to now and what it could mean for Ukraine's survival. Featured:Jim Sciutto, CNN chief national security analysts and host of The Brief
Brendan Nugent, the 43-year-old Victorian man accused of ramming his LandCruiser into Independent MP Helen Haines, has appeared in court today on five charges. Authorities say they are still working to determine an alleged motive. The incident has opened a fierce debate about the safety of politicians and worsening political discourse. So, will the tragedy change anything? Today political commentator and author Niki Savva on what needs to happen now. Featured: Niki Savva, political commentator and author