Gaza voters wait for Tuesday’s Israeli ballot amid daily strikes

Palestinians in Gaza are watching Israel’s upcoming election with a blend of anxiety and uncertainty. Although a ceasefire has been in place since October 2025, the territory continues to endure near-daily airstrikes and a strict siege that has led to shortages of basic goods. The vote, scheduled for Tuesday, is viewed by many residents as a decisive moment that will shape their immediate future.

The election is heavily influenced by the ongoing war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism for his security strategy prior to the October 7, 2023, attacks. His far-right allies have pushed for a harder stance on Gaza, including plans to expel parts of the population. Netanyahu’s main challenger is Gadi Eisenkot, a former military commander. Many in Gaza see Eisenkot as a potential alternative to what they view as Netanyahu’s hardline approach.

Mohammed Eliyan, 36, lives in Deir el-Balah with his five children after being displaced from Jabalia refugee camp. He supports Eisenkot, fearing that a second term for Netanyahu would mean further displacement and war. "We hope there will be changes after the election, and that someone other than Benjamin Netanyahu will win," Eliyan said. He called for the next leader to end the war, stop displacement, and ease restrictions at the crossings.

Islam Salem, 41, is displaced from Beit Lahiya with his three daughters. He believes Israeli policy will remain consistent regardless of the outcome. "Israeli policy will not change in any way," Salem said. He noted that Israel controls about 65 percent of Gaza’s territory within the "Yellow Line" and doubts that reconstruction will begin soon, given that more than 80 percent of buildings are damaged.

Hanan Abu al-Maaza, 57, has been displaced more than 12 times. She fears the next government could bring even more suffering. "We go to sleep without feeling safe, wondering what they might do to us next," she said. Abu al-Maaza hopes a new leader will allow residents to return to their homes in Beit Lahiya.

Manar Owaida, 23, is displaced in Gaza City. She worries that Netanyahu might launch a wider regional war to manage domestic political pressure around the vote. "There might be a change in Israeli policy if someone comes in place of Netanyahu and eases the blockade," Owaida said. Mousa Ali, 33, also in Gaza City with his four children, believes the election outcome will determine if displaced families can return to areas beyond the Yellow Line. He hopes Arab parties will gain a strong presence in the next government to influence policy.