Israel's election billed as one of the most important in its history
Israeli voters go to the polls on Tuesday in the first general election since the Hamas-led attacks of 7 October 2023. The vote could end Benjamin Netanyahu's nearly two decades of right-wing rule.
Israelis are due to vote on Tuesday in a general election that some describe as the most consequential in the country's history. It is the first nationwide parliamentary vote since the Hamas-led attacks on Israel of 7 October 2023. The outcome will decide whether right-wing leadership continues or a more left-leaning government takes over.
A long period of rule at stake
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has led right-wing governments for almost two decades. The vote could replace them with a government further to the left.
The main challenger
Netanyahu's principal rival is Gadi Eisenkot, a former chief of staff of the Israeli military. He argues that the election is about Israel's identity, and whether it remains a liberal and tolerant democracy.
Security at the centre of the campaign
Netanyahu has built his campaign around security. He warns that electing his opponents would make Israel less safe.
The situation is explained by BBC Middle East correspondent Lucy Williamson.
