The upcoming Israeli legislative elections on October 27 could have major implications for the country’s political direction, according to an article from the American magazine Foreign Policy. The article, written by David Rosenberg, explores how the outcome might determine whether Israel remains a liberal democracy or shifts toward an illiberal regime influenced by Orthodox Judaism. This potential shift is linked to the political coalition led by Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, and his allies from the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. Since shifting to the right in 2022, Netanyahu has relied on a coalition of far-right and ultra-Orthodox parties to push policies that weaken the independence of the judiciary and increase executive power. Such moves are seen as signs of a drift toward illiberal democracy, a system that retains elections and political pluralism but fails to uphold human rights, an independent judiciary, and press freedom. The increasing influence of religious parties in Israeli politics has raised concerns about the future of the country’s democratic institutions. While Israel remains a democracy with power ultimately resting in the hands of the people through its parliament, the Knesset, the role of Jewish religious law in public life has grown. This is evident in policies that provide financial and legal support to settlers in the West Bank and in ongoing efforts to exempt ultra-Orthodox men, known as haredim, from military service. The article questions whether this represents a move toward a theocratic system, where religious authorities directly exercise political power, as seen in Iran, where a religious leader holds significant influence over elected officials. The election will also have a direct impact on the future of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. A Netanyahu victory would likely strengthen support for expanding settlements, while a win for the opposition could slow, but not necessarily halt, this expansion. However, the article suggests that the most extreme elements of the settler movement have already gained too much power and are firmly entrenched in the political landscape. The outcome of the election could shape not only Israel’s domestic policies but also its international standing, as the country’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its democratic values come under increasing scrutiny. Whether Israel remains a liberal democracy or moves toward a more theocratic and illiberal model will depend on the results of this crucial vote.