"Israeli Municipal Elections: Impact of Gaza War and Voter Apathy"

Israel's municipal elections saw a significant drop in voter turnout, with only 41% of eligible Israelis voting by 7:00 p.m., compared to 49% in the previous elections. Opposition leader Yair Lapid expressed support for Orna Barbivay, who is running against incumbent mayor Ron Huldai in Tel Aviv. The elections were held amidst wartime, with incidents including fights, arrests for voter bribery, and confrontations with former mayors. President Isaac Herzog urged citizens to vote, emphasizing the impact of local government on their lives, while Labor Party leader Merav Michaeli voiced support for Huldai's leadership during the challenging times.