Israel’s upcoming general elections are attracting significant attention due to the participation of more than half a million first-time voters, who polls suggest could influence the outcome of what many view as a consequential contest for the nation’s future direction.
Among this cohort of new voters, support for far-right political movements appears notably strong. According to polling data from major Israeli media outlets, more than 16% of first-time voters plan to support either Ben-Gvir’s Jewish Power party or the Religious Zionism party led by Bezalel Smotrich. Additionally, approximately three-quarters of first-time voters identify themselves as right or centre-right politically. Young supporters of Ben-Gvir cite themes of national security and strength, with several interviewed voters expressing confidence that the politician would provide safety and demonstrate Israeli resolve. Political analyst Dahlia Scheindlin attributed the rightward orientation of younger voters partly to two decades of conflict experience without exposure to peace-building efforts, suggesting they have been acculturated to discuss annexation, settlement expansion, and other hardline positions as mainstream policy options.
Ben-Gvir’s political positions include annexation of the occupied West Bank, Jewish settlement of Gaza, and advocating for Palestinian emigration—stances that draw condemnation from liberal Israelis and have prompted sanctions or travel restrictions from several Western countries. His popularity among younger voters contrasts sharply with opposition in other segments of the population, and as he campaigns in mixed Jewish-Arab communities, reactions from local residents range from enthusiastic support to vocal criticism.
Political observers note that Ben-Gvir has effectively leveraged social media platforms to reach younger audiences, a strategy opposition parties have been slower to adopt. First-time voters demonstrate high motivation to participate, with surveys indicating over 80% likelihood of voting, though the same research suggests they express greater skepticism toward democratic institutions compared to older populations. Opposition parties have intensified efforts to engage young voters through social media campaigns, younger candidates, and messaging about democratic concerns.
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