Gaza residents fear Israeli vote outcome

Palestinians in Gaza are watching the Israeli general election scheduled for Tuesday with a mixture of anxiety and uncertainty. Despite a ceasefire that has held since October 2025, residents report facing near-daily air strikes and a continuing siege. Basic goods remain in short supply, creating harsh living conditions that persist regardless of the political campaign currently underway in Israel.

The election is heavily influenced by the war on Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism regarding his handling of security before the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023. Members of his far-right government have pushed for a tougher stance, including calls to expel Gaza's population. This political context shapes how residents view the potential outcomes of the vote.

Mohammed Eliyan, 36, lives in Deir el-Balah with his five children after being displaced from the Jabalia refugee camp. He supports Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli military commander and Netanyahu's main rival. Eliyan fears that another term for Likud and its far-right allies would bring more war and displacement. He stated, "They are still our enemy, and I don't expect things to improve dramatically," while hoping the next leader might be less harsh.

Islam Salem, 41, a father of three displaced from Beit Lahiya, believes the election result will likely worsen his children's future. He argues that elections primarily serve Israeli interests and that the approach to Gaza will remain consistent under any government. Salem pointed to Israel's control of approximately 65 percent of Gaza inside the so-called Yellow Line. He doubted that reconstruction would begin soon, noting that more than 80 percent of buildings in Gaza are damaged and about two-thirds are completely destroyed. He said, "We live day by day. Everything we feared has already happened."

Hanan Abu al-Maaza, 57, has been displaced more than 12 times during the war. She said fear drives her interest in the vote as she dreads worse treatment from the next government. If Netanyahu loses, she believes she has a better chance of returning to her home in Beit Lahiya. She stated, "We have had enough of war and destruction. There is nothing left to destroy, yet the suffering continues."

Manar Owaida, 23, originally from northern Gaza, now lives in the Tal al-Hawa neighbourhood of Gaza City. She hopes Eisenkot replaces Netanyahu, whom she considers more extreme. Owaida noted that Israeli policy has been consistent for decades. She suggested a new government might ease the blockade and withdraw from areas beyond the Yellow Line. Her biggest fear is that Netanyahu could start a wider regional war to relieve domestic political pressure around the vote.

Mousa Ali, 33, a father of four displaced from Beit Lahiya, said the election is critical due to the Yellow Line and the return of displaced people. He named Eisenkot as a possible alternative and hopes Arab parties perform strongly enough to influence the next government. Ali does not expect major change but believes a Netanyahu win would prolong displacement and Israeli control around the line. He added, "We hope this policy will end and that a new prime minister will stop this ongoing bloodshed."

Residents shared a common appeal for Israel's next leader: end the war, stop the bloodshed, and let people live in safety. The daily reality for many in Gaza involves managing shortages and fear while waiting for a political decision that may offer little immediate relief.