In Somalia, presidential elections scheduled for May were postponed until 2027 after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended both presidential and parliamentary terms through controversial constitutional amendments. The move has been rejected by opposition groups and several regional administrations, raising concerns about constitutional legitimacy, political fragmentation and the risk of renewed instability. Armed clashes between government and opposition-aligned forces in Mogadishu have highlighted the growing tensions.

In Israel, parliamentary elections remain officially scheduled for 27 October, although snap elections remain possible due to coalition instability and ongoing disputes within the governing alliance. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to face corruption charges and a deeply polarised political environment. Domestic economic concerns, the Gaza conflict, regional tensions and public protests are expected to shape the campaign, while coalition-building is likely to remain challenging regardless of the outcome.

Together, these developments underscore persistent governance challenges across the region. Political deadlock, institutional fragility and deep societal divisions are likely to remain key drivers of instability in the coming year.