
← The Daily
The Election That Will Define Israel’s Future
October 22, 2026·34m
Israelis head to the polls next week. On the ballot is the future of a country that has become isolated on the world stage, because of both its war in Gaza and a growing outcry over settler violence in the West Bank. David M. Halbfinger, the Jerusalem bureau chief for The New York Times, explains how Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu differs from his biggest challenger. Guest: David M. Halbfinger, the Jerusalem bureau chief for The New York Times. Background reading: Here’s why Palestinians hope Israelis will oust Netanyahu in pivotal election. President Trump endorsed Netanyahu as best U.S. partner in the Israeli election.