Voters in Israel are deciding whether to oust Netanyahu after 3 years of war

Israelis are voting in a pivotal election Tuesday as their country wrestles with unresolved wars, continues to reel from Hamas’ 2023 attack and is deeply divided over the character of the state and the right person to lead it.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who voted just after midday, faces an array of parties seeking to oust Israel’s longest-serving premier from power. Opinion polls have suggested a tight race with his main rival, former military chief Gadi Eisenkot. Over 7 million people are eligible to vote, and tens of thousands have reportedly arrived from overseas.

“This is a very moving and fateful moment. My wife and I are truly overwhelmed,” Netanyahu said. “We know what is at stake, and since I am not allowed to say things explicitly, I will say: Vote correctly.”

Inside Israel, the race is largely about security and who should serve to defend the country.