The short version
- More than half a million first-time voters are eligible to cast ballots in Israel's upcoming general election.
- Surveys suggest over 16 percent of these new voters plan to support far-right parties, including those led by Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich.
- Analysts attribute this trend to the impact of the October 7 attacks and a long-term socialization process that normalizes extreme political positions among youth.
Israel approaches its general election with a demographic shift that could significantly influence the outcome, as more than half a million citizens eligible to vote for the first time prepare to cast their ballots. Many observers view this contest as existential for the nation’s future security and identity. Polling data indicates a tight race, suggesting that the preferences of these young voters may prove decisive in determining which coalition holds power.
Recent surveys reveal a pronounced tilt toward the right among this new electorate. According to a poll conducted for Yedioth Ahronoth, more than 16 percent of first-time voters intend to support far-right parties, specifically Jewish Power, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, or Religious Zionism, headed by his ally Bezalel Smotrich. Another survey for Channel 12 found that nearly three-quarters of these young citizens identify as right or center-right, highlighting a distinct ideological orientation compared to older generations.
Ben-Gvir, who was previously rejected from military service due to his extreme political views, has become a central figure in the current government. His campaign appearances are often marked by enthusiastic support from young fans, who wave party flags and express strong admiration for his stance on national strength. Supporters like Mordechai, 20, argue that Ben-Gvir provides a sense of security and backs soldiers during their service, dismissing past controversial remarks as minor slips in an otherwise impressive record.
The October 7 attacks by Hamas appear to have solidified support for hardline positions among many young Israelis. Meir Schreiber, an ultra-Orthodox voter who grew up in London, stated that the attacks convinced him that peace efforts are futile and that Ben-Gvir represents the correct choice. This sentiment reflects a broader belief among some youth that their formative experiences during recent conflicts have shaped a worldview skeptical of diplomatic solutions and more inclined toward military strength.
However, political analysts caution against attributing this shift solely to recent events. Dahlia Scheindlin, a former campaign manager, notes that young Israeli Jews have been trending rightward for approximately two decades, often holding more extreme views than those aged 55 and older. She argues that these voters have been socialized into a political discourse where annexation and settlement expansion are considered legitimate topics, a trend that has intensified following the October 7 attacks.
Ben-Gvir’s platform includes controversial proposals such as the annexation of the West Bank, Jewish settlement in Gaza, and the voluntary emigration of Palestinians. These positions have drawn widespread condemnation from liberal Israelis and led to sanctions or travel bans from several Western nations. Despite this international criticism, his domestic appeal remains strong among certain segments of the youth population, who view his rhetoric as a necessary assertion of national sovereignty.
The reception of Ben-Gvir’s campaign is mixed, particularly in mixed cities like Ramle. While some shopkeepers greeted him with sweets, others expressed disapproval, accusing him of sowing discord and preying on uneducated young people. This division underscores the deep societal fractures within Israel, where coexistence exists alongside significant political polarization.
Recent classroom debates filmed by satirist Lior Schleien have drawn attention to the extreme views held by some students, including calls for violence against Arab citizens. Although such incidents are not representative of all youth, they highlight concerns about the radicalization of political discourse among younger generations. Surveys also indicate that while first-time voters are highly motivated to participate, they exhibit greater skepticism toward democratic institutions and less engagement with traditional forms of political protest.
As the election approaches, the impact of this youthful voting bloc remains a critical variable. With high turnout expectations among new voters, their preference for right-wing leadership could reshape Israel’s political landscape. The coming days will reveal whether these trends translate into tangible electoral gains for far-right parties and how this shift will influence future policy directions.
The outcome of this election may set the tone for Israel’s approach to security, settlement, and regional diplomacy for years to come. As young voters navigate their first participation in the democratic process, their choices reflect both immediate reactions to recent trauma and long-standing ideological currents that have been developing over decades.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC News↗Israel's far right find fertile ground among first-time voters
