Israel's Parliament Disbands, Netanyahu's Fate Uncertain
The Israeli parliament (Knesset) officially dissolved on Friday (17/7/2026) after 62 out of 120 members voted in favor of dissolution. This decision paves the way for a general election scheduled for October 27.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces uncertainty in holding onto his post amid declining popularity. His right-wing coalition over the past four years passed a number of controversial laws, including stripping the attorney general's powers and expanding government oversight of the media.
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana closed the session by noting the session was marked by protests and coincided with the longest war in the country's history. Netanyahu, the longest-serving prime minister, is increasingly cornered as a majority of citizens want him to resign due to anger over security failures on October 7, 2023.
Former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot has emerged as Netanyahu's strongest rival in the upcoming election.
https://www.gelora.co/2026/07/