CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Jerusalem. Voting began in Israel on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, for the general election. A day before the election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reached the historic Western Wall in Jerusalem with his wife, Sara, and offered prayers. He also placed a prayer note between the stones of the wall. This is the first parliamentary election after the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023, and the subsequent conflicts involving Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.
What is the historical significance of the Western Wall? The Western Wall is also called the “Kotel” in Hebrew. It is part of the outer retaining wall of the ancient Jewish temple complex in Jerusalem’s Old City. For Jews, it is one of the holiest places of prayer. Its religious importance is rooted in the history linked to the ancient Jewish temples. The Second Jewish Temple was destroyed by the Roman army in 70 CE. Since then, the Western Wall has become an important symbol of Jewish religious faith, historical heritage and community identity. Devotees pray here, and many write their wishes on small pieces of paper and place them in the cracks of the wall.
Why is the election important for Netanyahu? The election is a contest between the coalition led by Netanyahu and his main rivals. Voters do not directly elect the prime minister; instead, they vote for political parties for the 120 seats of parliament, the Knesset. After this, a coalition is formed to make the government. Therefore, even after voting, it may take time for the shape of the new government to be decided. Netanyahu’s visit to the Western Wall is linked to religious faith and Israel’s historical heritage. At the same time, the election result could affect the country’s security policy, domestic politics and the direction of the future government.
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