According to the German news agency The DPA, turnout was more than three percentage points higher compared to the 2022 elections at the same time of the day.

Long lines were set up in front of many polling stations in Tel Aviv and in the majority Arab town of Tayibbe.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voted in Jerusalem with his wife, Sarah, calling on citizens to participate in the vote.

His main rival, former army chief Gadi Eisencott, leader of the Yasar centre party, also called on citizens to vote. In Israel a wind of change is blowing, he declared.

According to media reports, about 70 thousand Israelis have returned from abroad to vote, as voting from abroad is generally not allowed.

The elections are considered crucial for Israel’s internal political and social future. However, experts do not expect significant changes in the country’s policy towards Palestinians.

Recent polls released Friday show a tight race between Netanyah and his political opponents, with Eisenkot as the main rival.

Source Layer: RTKLive