Jerusalem: Israel’s political parties are entering an increasingly important phase of the election campaign, with opposition groups discussing possible cooperation as they prepare for a closely watched parliamentary contest.

The campaign is unfolding amid intense debate over national security, the government’s record, economic pressures and the country’s future political direction.

Opposition parties have been examining ways to coordinate their efforts and maximise their parliamentary representation. However, differences between political groups remain, particularly over policy priorities, leadership and the composition of any future governing coalition.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains a central figure in the election campaign. His long period at the centre of Israeli politics has made the contest closely connected to questions about the direction of the current government and its approach to major national issues.

Security is expected to remain one of the most important subjects for voters. Israel’s ongoing regional conflicts and wider security concerns have placed defence policy and the government’s handling of military affairs at the heart of political discussions.

The events surrounding the October 7, 2023 attacks and the government’s subsequent response continue to influence public debate. Different political groups have offered competing assessments of government decisions and proposed different approaches to national security.

The economy is another significant campaign issue. Household costs, housing, employment and public spending are among the domestic matters likely to influence voters as political parties present their programmes.

Opposition groups face the challenge of balancing cooperation with their individual political identities. While some parties share an objective of changing the current government, they do not necessarily agree on all policy questions or on who should lead a potential alternative coalition.

Israel’s parliamentary system makes coalition-building particularly important. Because governments generally require support from multiple parties, the distribution of seats following the election could determine which political groups are able to form a governing alliance.

Arab political parties and other smaller groups could also become relevant during coalition negotiations, depending on the final election results and the positions of the larger blocs.

The campaign is therefore likely to remain fluid as parties seek to consolidate their support and appeal to undecided voters.

The coming weeks will be important for Israel’s political parties as they attempt to translate campaign messages into parliamentary support. The election will ultimately determine the composition of the next Knesset, while subsequent coalition negotiations will establish the country’s governing arrangement.