Arab Parties May Influence Israel's Upcoming Government Formation
In Israel's upcoming elections, opinion polls indicate that neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition nor the opposition bloc may secure the 61 seats needed for a parliamentary majority. A poll published by The Jerusalem Post shows both blocs at 54 seats each, with Arab parties projected to win eight seats. Another survey by Maariv forecasts 52 seats for both Netanyahu's bloc and the opposition, with Arab parties potentially winning 12 seats. If the main blocs remain short of a majority, Arab parties could play a crucial role in determining the next government. However, public sentiment is against formal participation of Arab parties in the government, with 59% opposing such a move, according to the Maariv poll. The election follows the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel, which has heightened tensions in the region.
Published 1 day ago • 12 Oct 2026, 08:29 PM IST