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News Guide: Developments in Israel’s election

An Israeli man with his daughter prepares to vote in Tel Aviv, Israel, Tuesday, March 17, 2015. Israelis are voting in early parliament elections following a campaign focused on economic issues such as the high cost of living, rather than fears of a nuclear Iran or the Israeli-Arab conflict. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)
An Israeli man with his daughter prepares to vote in Tel Aviv, Israel, Tuesday, March 17, 2015. Israelis are voting in early parliament elections following a campaign focused on economic issues such as the high cost of living, rather than fears of a nuclear Iran or the Israeli-Arab conflict. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty) An Israeli man with his daughter prepares to vote in Tel Aviv, Israel, Tuesday, March 17, 2015. Israelis are voting in early parliament elections following a campaign focused on economic issues such as the high cost of living, rather than fears of a nuclear Iran or the Israeli-Arab conflict. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

By Associated Press 3 min read

JERUSALEM (AP) – Israelis are casting their ballots in national elections widely seen as a test of faith in long-serving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Polls have forecast a close race, with Netanyahu focused on security issues while challenger Isaac Herzog of the center-left Zionist Union running on social and economic issues. These are the latest developments:

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FINAL APPEALS

Leaders of all parties made last-ditch efforts to reach voters after polling stations opened across Israel early Tuesday.

Netanyahu tried to appeal one last time to his hard-line base and reiterated a pledge to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state. He also took a swipe at Israel’s Arab minority, which is predicted to make big gains after four rival factions joined forces. The comments drew accusations of racism.