Israel has a unique and complex political structure that reflects its democratic system and diverse population. At the heart of Israel’s political system is the Knesset, a unicameral legislature with 120 members, elected every four years through proportional representation. The Knesset is responsible for passing laws, determining government policies, and overseeing the executive branch. The President of Israel, a largely ceremonial role, is elected by the Knesset for a seven-year term and represents the state on the international stage. Israel also has a Prime Minister who is the head of government and is typically the leader of the party or coalition with the most seats in the Knesset. The Prime Minister wields significant executive power, including the authority to form a cabinet, set government policy, and represent Israel in foreign affairs.

In addition to the national government, Israel has a decentralized system of local government, with municipalities and regional councils playing a vital role in managing local affairs and services. The country’s political landscape is characterized by a multi-party system, with a wide range of political parties representing diverse ideologies, religious groups, and societal interests. Due to the proportional representation system, coalition governments are common in Israel, as no single party usually wins an outright majority in the Knesset. This often requires parties to form alliances to create a stable government, making the Israeli political scene dynamic and reflective of the nation’s pluralistic society. The political structure in Israel embodies the nation’s commitment to democratic principles and accommodates the diverse needs and views of its population.