Accra:As Israel approaches the October 27 elections, campaign billboards urging voters to support right-wing parties by warning against the establishment of a Palestinian state are prominent across the country. The slogan "Right or Palestine" aims to depict an opposition victory as paving the way for Palestinian statehood, a prospect emphasized by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies.

According to Anadolu Agency, the concept of a Palestinian state is not central to the political agendas of the main opposition parties in Israel. While these parties generally agree that a political resolution with the Palestinians is currently impractical, their approaches vary from maintaining the status quo to improving relations with the Palestinian Authority (PA). The Yisrael Beiteinu party, led by Avigdor Lieberman, even advocates for dissolving the PA.

Netanyahu and his coalition argue that the opposition could lead to Palestinian statehood, a claim they hope will mobilize right-wing voters. However, opinion polls suggest that neither Netanyahu's bloc nor the opposition is likely to secure the 61-seat majority needed to form a government in the 120-member Knesset. Most opposition leaders have ruled out relying on Arab parties for support, but Netanyahu suggests they might eventually seek such alliances.

Arab citizens, who form over 20% of Israel's population, may influence the political landscape. Yousef Jabareen, chairman of the Joint List of Arab parties, stated that any support for an opposition government would come with conditions, emphasizing a commitment to ending what he calls the "bloodshed government." He criticized Netanyahu's government and expressed support for a Palestinian state alongside Israel.

Netanyahu and his partners have criticized Jabareen's comments, claiming they indicate a push for a Palestinian state. Netanyahu, facing corruption charges and an International Criminal Court warrant, insists that voting for his Likud party is the only way to prevent a left-wing government from establishing a Palestinian state.

Gadi Eisenkot, a leader of the opposition Yashar party, opposes the two-state solution and advocates for a Jewish-majority state without Palestinian incorporation. He also disagrees with Lieberman's proposal to dissolve the PA and annex parts of the West Bank. Eisenkot outlined principles for forming a government, emphasizing Israel's Jewish, democratic, and liberal identity, and rejecting partnerships with Arab parties that do not align with these values.

Eisenkot also expressed criticism of Netanyahu's handling of foreign affairs, particularly concerning Iran, Gaza, and Lebanon, but stated he would adhere to any agreements made by the current government with the United States. As the election approaches, Israel faces the possibility of another vote if a new coalition cannot be formed, with the current government remaining in a caretaker role.