Israelis Vote in 26th Knesset Elections as Polling Stations Open Nationwide
Millions of Israelis headed to the polls on Tuesday for the 26th Knesset elections as MK Ahmad Tibi was caught on video clashing with election workers in Tira, prompting warnings from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Polling stations across Israel opened at 7:00 AM on Tuesday as millions of citizens began casting their ballots in the 26th Knesset elections. Approximately 7.3 million eligible voters can exercise their democratic right at 12,018 polling stations nationwide, with most locations scheduled to close at 10:00 PM.
As election day unfolds, a video emerged showing MK Ahmad Tibi shouting at members of a polling committee in Tira. In the footage, Tibi appears frustrated with the pace of voting, shouting at a committee member, "Sit down, sit down, sit down! People are sick outside. People will sit here and vote."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged the public to mobilize, warning against a potential left-wing government. In a statement posted to social media, Netanyahu's campaign stated, "Huge lines at polling stations in the Arab sector. If we do not wake up now, we will find ourselves with a government of Mansour Abbas and Ahmad Tibi. It is time to wake up and act!"
Meanwhile, the Central Election Committee reported that the opening of polling stations proceeded smoothly, with over 95% opening on time and minor delays quickly resolved. Party leaders are currently working to maximize voter turnout before the polls close.
