Israelis are heading to the polls in a national election widely seen as a referendum on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israel’s election is widely seen as a referendum on the country’s longest-serving prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who voted just after midday, faces an array of parties seeking to oust him, Israel's longest-serving premier from power. Opinion polls have suggested a tight race.

Security, the wars in Gaza and Iran, ultra-Orthodox military conscription and the economic cost of prolonged conflict are among the issues shaping the vote. Israeli voters will head to the polls Tuesday in an election with implications beyond the country’s borders.

It could be weeks or even months before we know who will be Israel’s next prime minister. Exit polls released after voting ends late Tuesday will give a rough idea of how Israelis voted.

Netanyahu said he was issuing an "emergency call" as Israeli media reported the highest voter turnout by midday since 1977.

Israelis are about to vote to choose their next government. The race is wide open, and Benjamin Netanyahu's political fate could hinge on a couple key factors.

Israel is holding its first elections since the Hamas-led attacks of 2023 triggered a chain of conflicts across the region — a quick guide the key players, issues and when to expect a result.

Will Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hold power? Israel's election becomes a referendum on Oct. 7 failures as no bloc secures a clear majority.