The local elections in Israel have resulted in the rise of ultra-Orthodox and far-right parties. According to initial data, it is reported that ultra-Orthodox groups have secured a significant majority in the Jerusalem City Council.
LANDSLIDE VICTORY FOR THE ULTRA-ORTHODOX
According to reports from the Times of Israel, ultra-Orthodox parties have achieved an "unprecedented" success in Jerusalem. The fact that less than half of the voters went to the polls played a key role in the victory of these groups. The active participation of ultra-Orthodox voters stood in contrast to the low turnout among other voter demographics.
DIFFERING TRENDS IN JERUSALEM AND COASTAL CITIES
In the elections, Jerusalem's far-right Mayor Moshe Lion is expected to be re-elected. On the other hand, coastal cities such as Tel Aviv and Haifa maintained their liberal structure, displaying a different political trend. In Tel Aviv, long-serving Mayor Ron Huldai strengthened his position by defeating former Minister of Economy Orna Barbivai.
ELECTIONS AND EXPECTATIONS
The elections, which took place on Tuesday, had been postponed twice due to the war in Gaza. It will take a few more days to determine the final results. The influence of the ultra-Orthodox community, which makes up 13 percent of Israel's population of approximately 10 million, in these elections is having a significant impact on the country's political balance.
News Source: 12punto
