National Elections 2026

Everything you need to know about the structure and responsibilities of Israel's Knesset (parliament) and how national elections work in Israel.

Former Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid announced a joint run of the "Bennett 2026" and Yesh Atid parties in the 2026 election. It is certainly possible that we will see additional joint runs like these ahead of the elections, for example, within the center bloc, the right-wing bloc, and among the Arab parties. The assumption is that such a run would benefit the parties and the bloc. But is this assumption correct?

The regression in women’s representation in Israel is not a decree of fate but the result of political choices, and precisely in an election period, parties have a real opportunity to reverse this trend.

A fabricated AI-generated image of Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid posted on the Likud's social media accounts is a clear demonstration of a dangerous new form of election propaganda. Urgent steps must be taken to prohibit the use of such materials against one's political opponents.

Israel is entering a pivotal election year—its first since the judicial overhaul and the war that began on October 7, 2023. Throughout the year, IDI is asking its experts which issues will shape the election campaign. IDI President Yohanan Plesner is watching three key areas: national security, including efforts to advance regional stability and examine the failures surrounding October 7; ultra-Orthodox conscription, given the IDF’s manpower needs and the post-war reality; and Israel’s democratic character, as questions surrounding the rule of law and checks and balances return to the center of the public agenda.

With unprecedented technological tools in the hands of foreign and domestic actors, the proliferation of chatbots in the information ecosystem, and outdated regulatory frameworks, the integrity of Israel's 2026 elections will be tested like never before.

Following the release of the IDI's Israeli Democracy Index earlier this week, we're pleased to present the findings of a special chapter on Israeli public opinion ahead of 2026 national elections in Israel.

Instead of debating electoral reforms that seek to preserve and protect the political interests of those in power, let us focus on electoral reform, such as a semi-open ballot system, that would improve governance, increase accountability, and strengthen democracy.

Hungary's incoming prime minister declared his intention to institute term limits for the prime minister – an exceptional move for a parliament. While similar ideas have been proposed in Israel, term limits are not a substitute for strong democratic institutions based on oversight and checks and balances.

A reform that introduces a personalized component to Israel's elections would strengthen voter influence, enhance accountability of those voted into power, and improve Israel's democratic system.