VOTING FIGHT: Likud Minister Tells Israelis Abroad Not To Fly Home Just To Oust Netanyahu

Likud Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi on Wednesday criticized Israelis living abroad who plan to travel to Israel specifically to vote in the upcoming election, urging them not to return solely to remove Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu from power. "The left is now trying to bring masses of people from abroad," Karhi said in a Radio 103FM interview. "Anyone who doesn't live here in the country shouldn't come just because of their 'Anyone But Bibi' agenda to try to replace the government."

When asked why Israelis should not be permitted to vote from abroad, Karhi said those residing in Israel should determine its future. "I think whoever lives in the country should influence its future," Karhi said. "Anyone who doesn't live in the country is welcome to make aliyah. Every Jew is entitled to make aliyah, influence it and build it."

Israel's election is scheduled for October 27. Under Israeli law, most citizens cannot vote from overseas, requiring eligible Israelis living or traveling abroad to physically return to Israel to cast a ballot. The matter has grown contentious as Israelis living overseas have posted social media screenshots of airline tickets purchased for Election Day travel.

Likud recently petitioned the Central Elections Committee regarding an initiative offering free accommodations to voters traveling from abroad, arguing the arrangement amounted to an improper benefit intended to influence voters.

Some Israelis living overseas have reported difficulty obtaining clear information from the Interior Ministry about voter registration status and assigned polling stations. Some also said a government chatbot prevented them from verifying registration or determining their designated polling location.