Low Voter Turnout Marks Israel's Municipal Elections Amid War
As Israel holds municipal elections during wartime, voter participation significantly drops, with only 31.2% casting their ballots by 5:00 p.m.
- Voter turnout significantly lower than previous municipal elections, with only 31.2% of eligible Israelis voting by 5:00 p.m.
- Yair Lapid, leader of the opposition and Yesh Atid chairman, endorses former minister Orna Barbivay against incumbent mayor Ron Huldai in Tel Aviv.
- Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasizes the importance of local government, especially during wartime, urging citizens to vote.
- The Forum of Hostages and Missing Persons raises awareness for hostages held by Hamas, actively campaigning in 134 polling stations.
- Incidents of violence and allegations of vote-buying reported, reflecting tensions during the election process.