Israel: Snap elections set for September 17

Event

Israel will hold snap general elections on Tuesday, September 17, the second such vote in less than six months. Elections in April failed to produce a coalition government, and the Knesset (parliament) voted to dissolve itself in May. According to the latest polls, the outcome of Tuesday's vote is expected to be similar to that of April, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud party likely to emerge as the largest single party. 

Election day is a national holiday in Israel and business and governmental disruptions are expected nationwide. Political rallies and protests are possible following the result of the election; a heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be anticipated near all such demonstrations.

Context

Netanyahu is seeking his fourth consecutive term as prime minister in the September 17 elections but is facing close competition from the new Blue and White party led by former Chief of General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Benny Gantz. The vote comes after Netanyahu failed to form a coalition government in April. Should Netanyahu fail to form a coalition again, Israel may end up with a unity government between the Likud and the Blue and White party.

Advice

Individuals in Israel are advised to monitor the situation, avoid public political demonstrations due to the risk of violence, anticipate localized disruptions on September 17, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.