Residents of Gaza are closely monitoring Israel’s election scheduled for Tuesday, anticipating that the results could significantly impact their lives. The territory has existed under a ceasefire arrangement since October 2025, yet the population continues to face regular airstrikes, severe resource scarcity, and ongoing restrictions on movement and commerce.
Several Gaza residents expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of a change in Israeli leadership. Mohammed Eliyan, a displaced resident from Jabalia, stated that he hopes former military commander Gadi Eisenkot might defeat Prime Minister Netanyahu, whom he views as pursuing a hardline approach. Eliyan expressed concern that a continued Netanyahu government could result in additional military conflict and further displacement for Gaza’s population. However, he acknowledged skepticism about whether any change in Israeli leadership would substantially improve conditions for Palestinians.
Other Gaza residents revealed mixed perspectives on the election’s potential consequences. Islam Salem, displaced from the northern town of Beit Lahiya, suggested that Israeli policy toward Gaza would likely remain consistent regardless of electoral outcomes, citing Israel’s ongoing control of approximately 65 percent of Gaza’s territory and widespread destruction affecting over 80 percent of buildings. He expressed doubt that reconstruction efforts would commence in the near term. Salem characterized the situation as one where Palestinians struggle to envision a future beyond immediate daily survival.
Hanan Abu al-Maaza, who has been displaced multiple times during the conflict, expressed anxiety about the possibility that a new Israeli government could intensify hardships in the territory. She voiced hope that an electoral defeat for Netanyahu might enable her return to her home and create conditions for greater safety and stability. Abu al-Maaza called for the incoming Israeli leadership to cease hostilities and allow the population to rebuild their lives, noting that Gaza’s infrastructure has been substantially diminished by years of conflict.
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