Israel Election Expected to Test Netanyahu’s Return Bid

Israel’s Oct. 27 election is shaping up as a pivotal contest over whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can return to power or a broad opposition alliance can replace his coalition. The campaign is unfolding amid the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack and ongoing regional conflict, with voters also confronting questions of government accountability for Israel’s failure to anticipate the attack and the future direction of its policies. Analysts say the outcome will depend on negotiations among competing parties, including religious and ultra-Orthodox factions, while disputes over disqualified Arab parties add uncertainty. One American Jewish perspective argues that opposing Netanyahu’s government and its policies is compatible with supporting Israel, and that fear of antisemitism should not silence criticism.