Israel's Knesset dissolves, election set for Oct 27, 2026

Jerusalem — The 25th Knesset voted to dissolve itself on Tuesday, marking the first occasion since 1988 that a full legislative term has come to an end without early elections. The decision, taken by a narrow majority, triggers the start of Israel’s electoral cycle and sets the date for a national vote on October 27, 2026.

The dissolution follows a year of intense parliamentary activity, during which the coalition government, headed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, navigated a series of budget approvals, security briefings and legislative initiatives. With the Knesset’s term concluding as scheduled, political parties are now preparing campaign platforms for what analysts describe as a pivotal election that could reshape Israel’s domestic and foreign policy landscape. The election will be conducted under the existing proportional representation system, and the results are expected to be announced within weeks of voting.