Israel Opens Polls for 26th Knesset Elections Amid Heavy Early Turnout
Israel's 26th Knesset elections opened with high early turnout and long queues nationwide. The Central Election Committee reports over 95% of polling stations operating smoothly as millions head to the polls.
Polling stations across Israel opened smoothly at 7:00 AM on Tuesday for the 26th Knesset elections, with the Central Election Committee reporting the opening of over 95% of stations in the initial hours. Long queues and heavy voter turnout were reported from early morning at locations including Rishon LeZion and Ra'anana, with citizens adjusting personal travel schedules and expressing surprise at the high early participation.
In the Lower Galilee community of Mitzpe Netofa, local resident Meir cast his vote at the polling station alongside supporters of the newly formed Amcha Yisrael Party, led by retired Brigadier General Ofer Winter. Expressing optimism despite electoral threshold concerns, Meir remarked on the possibility of a local cabinet minister if voter momentum continues.
Meanwhile, the Central Election Committee estimates that between 600,000 and 650,000 citizens will cast their ballots via double envelopes, largely driven by reservists and displaced persons voting far from home. Representing roughly 15 mandates, these vital double-envelope votes mean final election results and potential mandate shifts will likely only be confirmed by Thursday afternoon.
