Israel’s October 27 elections: security, military service for the ultra-Orthodox, and the cost-of-living crisis define the debate

On October 27, Israelis go to the polls, with a campaign steeped in the tensions following October 7, 2023, including responsibility for the attack, conflicts on multiple fronts, the issue of ultra-Orthodox conscription, and the sharply rising cost of living.

One of the main axes of the race remains the failure to prevent the Hamas incursion of October 7, 2023. The opposition insists on forming an independent state commission of inquiry, while the executive led by Benjamin Netanyahu favors a bipartisan commission whose members would be appointed by political forces.

Netanyahu also faces accusations regarding the past government approach to Qatar, a major funder of Hamas. Beyond this, the electoral battle is expected to focus strongly on the future direction of national security.

After October 7, the Jewish state has been engaged in prolonged military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, Iran, and Yemen. The continuous call-ups of reservists have caused personnel gaps and a heavy economic burden.

Another dividing line relates to the exemption granted to ultra-Orthodox students from military service. Religious parties and Likud aim to continue these exemptions, while most of the opposition seeks their integration into the army.

Even as the economy grows and unemployment remains low, Israel suffers from one of the world’s highest costs of living. Housing shortages, uncompetitive markets, and the doubling of defense spending since 2023 are weighing on families and the state coffers.