Updated

Israeli scholars, officials and civil society figures warned of an increasingly toxic political discourse during what has been described as an ugly election campaign season, raising concerns that hostile rhetoric could escalate into political violence. The warnings span the political spectrum, with observers noting that incitement and delegitimization of opponents have intensified as parties compete ahead of the vote. Commentators cited in the reporting said conditions could deteriorate further before improving, and pointed to the need for restraint from political leaders and stronger enforcement against threats. The concerns come amid broader domestic tensions in Israel over the conduct of the war, the ultra-Orthodox draft dispute and contested election-administration rulings.