Israel's Oct. 27 election will shape the coalition that sets Iran policy after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for Tehran's government to fall and his office outlined a doctrine including preemptive strikes.
Netanyahu said on Oct. 20 that bringing down Iran's government was an Israeli goal. In an Oct. 18 statement, the Prime Minister's Office described a security approach focused on acting before threats develop, including through preemptive strikes. The office linked the approach to the Oct. 7, 2023, attack and the regional fighting that followed.
The Democrats would enlist regional partners to address Iran's nuclear and missile programs. Their plan pairs diplomacy and sanctions with the option of military action. It also pledges to halt moves to annex the West Bank and end funding for outposts established in violation of law or at odds with security considerations.
Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief who leads Yashar!, proposes replacing Israel's national security doctrine. His party also seeks greater military strength and additional regional peace agreements. Its published English platform does not specify what it would do about the Iran war.
On the West Bank, Netanyahu said on Aug. 9 that a Palestinian state would not be established while he was prime minister. Eisenkot rejected a two-state solution after the Oct. 7 attack in an Aug. 27 interview with Israel Hayom. He opposed issuing construction tenders for E1 at that point, citing an international cost.
The parties' stated positions do not establish the next government's Iran war policy.
Gulf Research Center Chairman Abdulaziz Sager described regional leaders as seeking to limit Iranian influence while objecting to Netanyahu's policies in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza and the West Bank, Reuters reported.
Israelis choose party lists for the 120-seat Knesset, where 61 seats are needed for a majority. A list must receive at least 3.25% of valid votes to enter parliament, and parties then negotiate a governing coalition. The Central Elections Committee has scheduled publication of official results for Nov. 4.
