I am a Jew of Arab and European descent who moved to Israel almost seven years ago. Although I do not live in the territories, I work there. I’m looking forward to fewer checkpoints, the application of environmental regulations (the burning garbage, pollution and contamination there are horrific) and better relations among different demographic populations.

Alec Siegel, Tel Aviv

Gantz takes a more sober, realistic approach to the conflict with the Palestinians. His background as the Israel Defense Forces chief of staff certainly helps, but he seems to grasp the more diplomatic aspects of being a head of state as well.

He advocates smaller steps that could improve lives on all sides while keeping in mind the ultimate goal of two states, without simply paying lip service to a lofty ideal.

Seraj Assi, Washington

I’m boycotting the election.

As a Palestinian citizen of Israel, I have no reason to be optimistic about my future in the country. If by simply exercising my basic democratic right to vote, I am posing a threat to Israel’s political order, as Netanyahu has constantly hinted, then I can only imagine where my struggle for equal rights stands right now.

What’s more, Arabs will have no say in the new government, regardless of who wins. All major party (Jewish) leaders said they will not invite Arab parties to join a government coalition. That explains why many Arabs are boycotting, with reasons ranging from racism and discrimination to lack of faith in both Arab parties and Israel’s democracy.

Hanan Cohen, Beit Shemesh

I am Jewish. The Arab citizens in Israel are the weakest in our society. The minimum I can do for them is to give my vote to an Arab party: Hadash.