Israeli election officials rejected a request from Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party to extend voting hours on October 27, 2026, as record turnout was reported. By 6 p.m., 66.7% of eligible voters had participated, the highest figure for that time since 1973. Concerns were raised about turnout in left-leaning and Arab communities, while opposition parties criticized the request to change voting rules. Weather conditions also complicated voting logistics in some regions.
Key facts
- Election officials rejected a request to extend voting hours on October 27, 2026.
- 66.7% of eligible voters had cast ballots by 6 p.m., the highest since 1973.
- Likud and Shas cited long lines as a reason for the extension request.
- A party must secure at least 3.25% of the vote to enter the Knesset.
- Weather conditions affected voting in parts of southern Israel.
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