Israel Elections, Netanyahu Urges Likud Voters to Turn Out as Turnout Hits 31.5%

Israel's general election is seeing a record pace of voter participation, with turnout reaching 31.5% by noon local time, according to figures released by the Central Elections Committee. Approximately 2 million people had cast their ballots by 12:00, marking the highest turnout recorded at this stage of an election since 1977, when the Likud secured a historic victory after decades of Labour-led governments.

Earlier in the morning, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu published a video addressed to Likud supporters, urging them to vote. Describing the message as an “emergency call,” Netanyahu claimed that attempts were being made to undermine his party's electoral support. He also referred to the arrest of three Ra'am party figures in southern Israel, alleging that they had been carrying cash intended to influence the vote. These claims were made by the prime minister and should be distinguished from independently confirmed findings.

Netanyahu called on supporters to mobilise family members and neighbours, urging them to set aside leisure activities and head to the polling stations. He framed the election as a choice between a right-wing government led by Likud and its allies, and a government supported by left-wing parties and Arab political groups.

The high turnout is an important indicator to monitor as voting continues, but it does not, in itself, predict the election result. The outcome will depend on how votes are distributed among the parties and whether a parliamentary majority can be assembled in the 120-seat Knesset.

The election carries significant implications for Netanyahu's political future and for the next government's approach to national security, foreign policy and the economic consequences of regional conflicts.