Do Palestinians in Gaza expect anything to change after Israel’s election? | Israel Election 2026 News
Deir el-Balah, Gaza Strip — As Israelis prepare to vote for their next government on Tuesday, many Palestinians in Gaza are filled with apprehension and uncertainty. The upcoming elections come after three years marked by escalating conflict and hardship in the region.
Despite a “ceasefire” declared in October 2025, residents of Gaza continue to face regular Israeli airstrikes, severe living conditions, and a longstanding blockade that has resulted in significant shortages of essential goods.
The elections have been profoundly influenced by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced mounting criticism regarding his handling of security prior to the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023. Members of his right-wing coalition have advocated for a more aggressive stance, including the potential forced displacement of Gaza’s population.
Many Gazans are aware that the election results could have lasting implications for their future. Mohammed Eliyan, a father of five, was displaced from Jabalia refugee camp and now resides in Deir el-Balah. He expresses hope that a change in Israeli leadership might lead to relief for Palestinians who have faced persistent displacement and conflict.
“We follow the Israeli election to see who will win in the next phase. We hope for some easing of the situation for the Palestinian cause and for us,” Eliyan said.
Eliyan favors Gadi Eisenkot, a former Israeli military leader and Netanyahu’s chief opponent, believing he could bring less aggressive policies toward Gaza. However, he remains skeptical about any significant changes in Israeli policy regardless of the election’s outcome.
“They are still our enemy, and I don’t expect things to improve dramatically,” he admitted. Eliyan called for the next Israeli leader to end the conflict and alleviate the restrictions at Gaza’s borders.
Islam Salem, 41, displaced from Beit Lahiya with three daughters, emphasizes the intertwined nature of politics and daily life in Gaza. He is cautiously watching the elections, fearing that the outcome may negatively influence the future of his children.
“Politics is our livelihood. It connects to everything in our lives, including our living conditions,” he stated.
Salem doubts that a new government will significantly alter Israeli policy, asserting that the core strategies toward Gaza will likely remain unchanged. He highlighted ongoing Israeli control over much of Gaza, expressing concern about the prospects of reconstruction, with over 80 percent of structures damaged during the conflict.
“Reconstruction will be difficult. They do not want to give rights to others; they want all the rights for themselves,” he remarked.
Hanan Abu al-Maaza, 57, has experienced displacement more than a dozen times during the conflict. She remains fearful that the next Israeli government could exacerbate the hardships faced by residents of Gaza.
“We go to sleep without safety, wondering what they might do to us next,” she shared. Abu al-Maaza hopes for a leadership change in Israel, believing it could allow her to return to her home in Beit Lahiya.
“Maybe they will realize there is nothing left in Gaza and stop the war,” she said, urging the next leader to prioritize the well-being of Palestinians.
Manar Owaida, 23, now displaced in Gaza City, is closely following the election, as she weighs how it could affect her life and those of her fellow Palestinians. While she wishes for Gadi Eisenkot to win, she acknowledges the long-standing consistency of Israeli policies regarding Gaza.
“Israel’s policy is one of crime, killing, and destruction,” she said, referencing the enduring blockade since 1948. Owaida hopes that a shift in leadership could lead to diminished restrictions and violence but is wary of the uncertainty surrounding the elections.
Mousa Ali, 33, displaced from Beit Lahiya and now living in Gaza City with four children, views the upcoming election as crucial for the potential return of displaced Palestinians. He expresses hope that a new administration would allow for greater freedoms and improved conditions.
“This election is critical, especially concerning the Yellow Line. We hope the opposition will better facilitate the return for displaced people,” he stated.
However, Ali fears that the outcome may not bring the changes many in Gaza desire. “Every day in Gaza, there is bloodshed, and people are being killed,” he said, urging for an end to the violence.
As the election approaches, the sentiments of residents reflect a blend of hope and fear, with many Gazans awaiting the results, uncertain of how they will affect their lives moving forward.
