New Delhi, Oct. 27 -- Israel heads to a crucial general election on October 27, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing a formidable challenge from an opposition led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot.

While Netanyahu's political future hangs in the balance, the election may not be decided by the popular vote alone.

Israel's coalition-based parliamentary system means even a party that finishes behind its rivals could remain in a position to form the government.

The outcome could shape Israel's approach to the war in Gaza and wider regional conflicts, its relations with the United States and Europe, and the country's domestic political trajectory.

For India, the stakes extend to defence cooperation, trade, energy security and...