Politics & Government Guide
Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions in Israel
Israel's right-wing coalition government led by Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud remains in power as of early 2026 despite multiple party exits and rejoins amid the Gaza war and ceasefire fluctuations. The government faces judicial reform controversies and opposition unity efforts ahead of legislative elections by October 2026. The 2026 budget prioritizes tax cuts to shore up voter support for the coalition.
Government Type
Unitary parliamentary republic
Legal System
Mixed legal system of common law and civil law
Head of State
President Isaac Herzog(since 2021)
Head of Government
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu(Likud)since 2022
Legislature
Major Political Parties
Right-wing
Center
Centrist
Far-right
Voting Rights
Israeli citizens over 18 can vote in national elections. Permanent residents generally cannot vote in national elections unless they are citizens.
Recent Developments
- Otzma Yehudit left the government in January 2025 over Gaza ceasefire but rejoined in March 2025 after collapse[3][4]
- New Hope resigned in March 2024, National Unity left in June 2024, New Hope rejoined in September 2024[3]
- 2026 budget proposes tax cuts for middle and high incomes to boost coalition support ahead of elections[7]
- Nagel Committee report in January 2025 recommends self-sufficiency in munitions production[6]
- Opposition leaders discuss coordinating to bring down government ahead of 2026 elections[3]
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