Brief
Israel's election results may remain undecided for weeks after polls close
Israel's Oct. 27 vote could leave the next prime minister unknown for weeks as parties negotiate coalition deals.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Israel's parliamentary election concluded on Tuesday evening, Oct. 27, 2026, when polling stations closed at 10 p.m. local time (1900 GMT), but the Associated Press notes that a definitive winner may not be known for weeks.
Voters chose among 36 parties, each identified by a one‑ to three‑letter Hebrew symbol on the ballot. No single party is expected to secure the 61‑seat majority required to govern alone, meaning the next prime minister will have to assemble a coalition.
Exit polls from Israel's three main broadcasters are expected shortly after polls close, offering an early indication of seat allocations, though the AP cautions that official results, to be released in the coming days, may differ.
Analysts say the race is tight between the coalition supporting incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu and the bloc led by retired General Gadi Eisenkot, who currently holds a slight lead in polls. Both coalitions are projected to fall short of a majority, raising the prospect of prolonged negotiations.
Under Israel's system, President Isaac Herzog will consult with all party leaders after the election and task the candidate most likely to form a coalition with that effort. If the first candidate cannot secure a majority within six weeks, other leaders may be given a chance.
The process gives smaller parties considerable leverage, as their support can tip a coalition over the 61‑seat threshold. Larger parties typically bargain with them by offering cabinet posts, budget allocations, or policy concessions.
Should coalition talks fail, the AP reports that Israel could face another election within months, with the current government remaining in a caretaker role until a new coalition is formed.
Key facts
- Polling stations in Israel closed at 10 p.m. local time on Oct. 27, 2026. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- No party is expected to win the 61‑seat majority needed to govern alone. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- Exit polls will be released shortly after polls close, but official results may differ. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- President Isaac Herzog will hold consultations with party leaders and task the most likely candidate with forming a coalition. (winnipegfreepress.com)
- If a coalition cannot be formed within six weeks, other candidates may be given a chance. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Sources
- [1] winnipegfreepress.com — originally reported as “It could be weeks or months before the winner of Israel's election is known”
