Gaza Residents Await Tuesday Vote as Israeli Forces Hold 65 Percent of Territory

Palestinians across the Gaza Strip are monitoring the Israeli general election scheduled for Tuesday, October 27, with a focus on the potential shift in leadership. The vote follows a ceasefire agreement reached in October 2025, yet residents report that daily life remains defined by frequent air strikes and a persistent siege. Basic goods continue to move in short supply, and the political contest is dominated by Benjamin Netanyahu and his chief challenger, former military commander Gadi Eisenkot.

The campaign has centered heavily on the war in Gaza. Netanyahu faces criticism regarding the security posture leading up to the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023. His coalition includes far-right members who have pushed for a harder approach, including the expulsion of the population. In Deir el-Balah, Mohammed Eliyan, 36, who was displaced from Jabalia refugee camp, supports Eisenkot. He fears a second Netanyahu term will bring more war, though he admits he does not expect a dramatic improvement in conditions.

Islam Salem, 41, a father of three daughters originally from Beit Lahiya, views the election as primarily serving Israeli interests. He notes that Israel currently controls approximately 65 percent of the territory inside the Yellow Line. Salem points to the physical damage, noting that more than 80 percent of buildings in Gaza are damaged, with two-thirds of those completely destroyed. He doubts reconstruction will begin soon and stated that his family lives day by day.

Hanan Abu al-Maaza, 57, has been displaced more than 12 times during the conflict. She believes a loss for Netanyahu offers a better chance for her to return to her home in Beit Lahiya. She expressed a desire for the war to end, stating that there is nothing left to destroy yet the suffering continues. Manar Owaida, 23, who now lives in the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood of Gaza City, also favors Eisenkot. She warned that Netanyahu might start a wider regional war to relieve domestic political pressure.

Mousa Ali, 33, a father of four, said the outcome is critical for displaced Palestinians regarding their ability to return to areas beyond the Yellow Line. He hopes Arab parties will perform strongly enough to influence the next government. Ali does not expect major changes but believes a Netanyahu victory would prolong displacement. Residents across the territory have issued a common appeal to the next leader to end the war and stop the bloodshed.

The election result will determine the next phase of policy for a territory where the ceasefire has not fully resolved the humanitarian crisis. The Yellow Line continues to divide the strip, controlling movement and access for the majority of the population. Residents will know the outcome of the vote as Israeli ballots are counted later this week.