How do Israel's elections work and who are the main contenders?

Israel's general election takes place on Tuesday 27 October. It's the first election since the 7 October 2023 Hamas-led attacks on Israel and its subsequent conflicts in Gaza and with Iran, Hezbollah and the Houthis. Many view it as one of the most pivotal elections in Israel's history, with global implications. Current polling puts incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu in a tight race with Gadi Eisenkot, a former head of the Israel Defense Forces, to become prime minister. Eisenkot's popularity stems partly from his military credentials and his relative newness in politics, having formed his Yashar Party only last year.