Amid record turnout in some Arab-majority towns, Netanyahu accuses Arab citizens of trying to steal elections in racial appeal to voters

A close contest draws voters

Israelis voted in a closely fought election between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a loose coalition of rivals seeking to remove his right-wing government. Turnout was high by midday, reaching its highest level in decades, according to the report.

Remarks target Arab turnout

As early data showed strong participation in Arab cities and towns, Netanyahu used language casting suspicion on Arab voters. He accused them of “trying to steal the elections,” repeating similar claims in several statements during the day.

Arab citizens account for about 20 percent of Israel’s population and have long said they face discrimination and are treated as second-class citizens. In some Arab-majority towns, turnout by late afternoon had exceeded the totals recorded in 2022.

Vote count may take time

Polls were scheduled to close at 10 p.m., but the result was not expected to immediately determine who would become prime minister. Opinion polls suggested the two blocs were roughly tied, and forming a government could take weeks or months.

Netanyahu’s Likud party asked the Central Election Committee to extend voting hours across the country. Rivals said the unusual request could sow doubt about election integrity; officials were unlikely to approve it. Election officials reported no indication of widespread irregularities.

Policy disputes shape campaign

Netanyahu has opposed creating an independent commission to investigate the Oct. 7 attacks and has pledged to continue overhauling the judicial system. Critics say the changes could weaken Israel’s liberal democracy.