Slovenia's 1.7 million eligible voters are heading to the polls in what promises to be one of the country's most closely contested elections, with a tight race between Prime Minister Robert Golob and challenger Janez Janša dominating the campaign.

The election has been marked by controversy, including allegations involving the Israeli intelligence firm Black Cube and accusations of surveillance operations targeting political figures. The scandal has added an element of intrigue to an already heated campaign.

Janša's well-documented ties to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán have featured prominently in the campaign, with opponents warning that a Janša victory could push Slovenia closer to Hungary's illiberal model of governance. Supporters counter that the relationship provides Slovenia with valuable strategic partnerships.

Another contentious issue has been the reversal of Slovenia's recognition of Palestine, a decision that generated significant domestic and international debate. The move became a flashpoint in the campaign, with parties divided along predictable lines over foreign policy orientation. With polls showing the race too close to call, the outcome could have significant implications not only for Slovenia's domestic direction but also for its positioning within the European Union and NATO.