Young Israeli voters lean towards far-right parties ahead of election

Far-right parties appear to have strong support among young Israelis ahead of a closely contested general election, giving first-time voters potential influence over the result. The trend reflects both the impact of the 7 October 2023 attacks and a longer shift: analysts say young Israeli Jews have been more right-wing than older generations for about two decades.

Ben-Gvir’s supporters say he would make Israel safer and allow them to express national strength, while critics in the mixed city of Ramle accuse him of sowing division. His platform includes annexing the occupied West Bank, settling Gaza and the “voluntary emigration” of Palestinians; several Western countries have sanctioned or restricted him and fellow minister Bezalel Smotrich. A poll found more than 16% of first-time voters plan to back their parties, and another survey found almost three-quarters identify as right or centre-right.