By Erestinah Jane, July 13, 2026
Israel’s political landscape is taking shape ahead of the country’s general election scheduled for October 27, 2026, with several prominent opposition leaders positioning themselves to challenge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in what is expected to be a closely contested race.
Leading the opposition field is former Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, who heads the Yashar party. The 66-year-old former military commander, whose parents were Moroccan immigrants, has emerged as one of Netanyahu’s strongest challengers. Eisenkot has gained significant public support, particularly following the deaths of his son, Gal Eisenkot, and two nephews during the Gaza conflict. Opinion polls indicate that his party has gained momentum, with many voters viewing him as a credible candidate for the premiership.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has also returned to frontline politics, leading the Together party in an attempt to unseat Netanyahu. Bennett, who previously served as Israel’s prime minister, has consistently featured among the top contenders in recent opinion polls. His party has established itself as one of the largest forces within the anti-Netanyahu Zionist bloc, making him a key player in the race.
Another influential opposition figure is former Prime Minister Yair Lapid, leader of the centrist Yesh Atid party. Lapid continues to enjoy strong backing among urban, secular and moderate Israeli voters. Although political analysts say his appeal has largely remained concentrated within his traditional support base, his party remains central to any efforts aimed at building a united opposition coalition. Lapid is widely regarded as a potential kingmaker whose support could determine the success of a broader alliance against Netanyahu.
Veteran politician Avigdor Lieberman is also seeking to strengthen his position ahead of the election. Born in what is now Moldova, Lieberman previously served as Netanyahu’s chief of staff before becoming one of his most vocal political rivals. He has held several senior government positions, including Minister for Foreign Affairs, Defence and Finance.
Lieberman currently leads the secular nationalist Yisrael Beiteinu party and has campaigned on a strong national security platform. He has also continued to advocate for reforms aimed at ending what he describes as special privileges enjoyed by ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities, including calling for mandatory military service for all eligible citizens.
With the election drawing closer, analysts expect coalition-building to dominate Israeli politics, as no single party is projected to secure an outright parliamentary majority. The ability of opposition leaders to unite behind a common agenda could play a decisive role in determining whether Prime Minister Netanyahu secures another term in office or faces defeat after years of leading Israeli politics.
The October 27 election is expected to focus on national security, the economy, judicial reforms, relations with neighbouring countries and the future direction of Israel following years of political divisions and regional conflict.
