System of Government
Israel is governed by a multi-party parliamentary system. The President of the State of Israel fulfills mainly ceremonial duties and is not a part of the three branches of government.
1. The legislative authority:
The Knesset, Israel's Parliament, includes 120 members elected for a term of four years in nationwide elections.
• Electoral System in Israel • Political Parties in Israel
2. The executive authority:
The government headed by the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is elected in nationwide elections for a period of four years. All recent governments were formed by a coalition of parties. The Ministers that head the government ministries are appointed by the Prime Minister, generally from among the ranks of the parties in the coalition.
3. Judicial system and courts
Local Government
Cities in Israel are managed by a mayor and the city council. City mayors and members of the city council are elected in regional elections held every five years. Smaller townships are included within regional councils and local councils.