Ballot Access: 80,000 Israelis Return for Tight Vote

Up to 80,000 Israeli citizens residing abroad are expected to return to the country to vote in Tuesday's general election. The influx of voters is occurring against the backdrop of one of the closest races in recent history, with polls showing a dead heat between the leading contenders.

Israel does not permit voting from abroad, with the exception of diplomats stationed in foreign missions. Consequently, citizens living overseas must travel home to participate in the democratic process. Yael Shomer, a political science professor at Tel Aviv University, noted that while this group represents a small portion of the electorate, it could influence the final tally in a tightly contested outcome. "While not a large block, the 80,000 that may return home to participate could make a big difference in the final count of a very tight election," Shomer said.

The election marks the first vote since 2022 and pits Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the Likud party against Gadi Eisenkot, the former chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces who leads the Yashar party. Netanyahu has served as Prime Minister for 18 years across three separate terms. Both candidates are expected to require support from coalition partners to secure a majority in the Knesset.

Key issues driving the campaign include national security, which has become a more contentious topic due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. The debate also centers on the conscription exemption for some ultra-Orthodox men and Netanyahu's plan to increase governmental control over the judiciary. Shomer described the contest as a fight over the country's future, predicting high voter engagement. "All elections in Israel are energetic, but because this one will have such a meaningful impact on the future of the country it has been especially hard fought," she said.

The America-Israel Democracy Coalition established the Fly & Vote initiative to facilitate travel for citizens abroad. Although political parties and organizations are barred from paying for transportation, the group has chartered flights and purchased ticket blocks to assist voters. The initiative is funded by private donations and maintains a nonpartisan stance. "Israelis who don't live here still have a stake in what we do, and we want to help them," said Ora Peled-Nakash, a co-founder of the group.

Commercial air travel to Israel has expanded in recent months. Arkia and Israir began offering flights from the United States last year and earlier this year, respectively. United and Delta have resumed service after suspending routes during the Iran war. Lufthansa operates flights from Europe, and British Airways is scheduled to restart service this week. As of Sunday, El Al flights from New York area airports offered seats for between $1,300 and $2,500.

Voter turnout is expected to rise from the 70% recorded in 2022. Pollsters estimate participation could reach 87% in the current election. Among foreign service workers in embassies and consulates, turnout was 90%, a figure significantly higher than the usual 70% average. The result of Tuesday's vote will determine the direction of Israel's political, security, and economic policies following a period of instability that saw five elections between 2019 and 2022.