Shadow of war looms over Israel's October 27 election, Netanyahu fights to hold power

The whole world is watching Israel's general election scheduled for October 27. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces major challenges this time in the form of security, action against Iran, and the regional war that has been going on for some time. War-like conditions have heated up the country's domestic politics, and Netanyahu has once again entered the field with full force to return to power. The opposition, too, is calling for a tough stance on Iran.

This election is being seen as extremely important for Netanyahu. Because of Gaza and other regional conflicts, Israel's security has become the biggest issue in this election. The government's decisions on the war have drawn varied reactions within the country. Some want the military to take more aggressive action, while others are worried about the conditions created by the continuing war. This is why Netanyahu's handling of security and the war will now have to pass a major test with voters.

Leaders contesting against Netanyahu are also taking a tough stance on Iran. The opposition says that more concrete steps need to be taken against Iran to reduce the threat to the country's security. Because of this, how the war is handled more effectively, rather than being stopped, could become an important issue in the election. Even as opposition leaders target Netanyahu's security policy, they do not appear to be fully opposed to the large-scale military operations under way.

Security, Iran, Gaza and the government's ability to handle the war will remain the main issues in Israel's upcoming election. For Netanyahu, holding on to power is a fight for his political credibility. The opposition, meanwhile, has a chance to challenge Netanyahu's leadership and change the balance of power. Which side voters back in this wartime atmosphere will, to a large extent, determine the direction of Israel's security and foreign policy going forward.