Israel Election Committee Denies Likud Request to Extend Voting

The Central Election Committee denied a formal request from the Likud party and its allies to extend voting hours during Israel's parliamentary elections on October 27, 2026. Likud, supported by the Shas, Otzma Yehudit, and People of Israel parties, sought a one-hour extension, citing rainy weather and unprecedented congestion at polling stations.

Shas Chairman Arye Deri expressed concern that voter apathy in right-wing and Haredi strongholds contrasted with high turnout in Arab and left-wing sectors. The committee rejected the petition, stating that high turnout across all sectors did not justify a nationwide extension, though it noted that any voter arriving before the 10 p.m. closing time would be permitted to cast their ballot.

Voting hours were extended only in Hebron following a power outage. The Yashar party, led by Gadi Eisenkot, opposed the extension request and accused Likud of attempting to undermine the integrity of the election based on claims made by Benjamin Netanyahu.