Benjamin Netanyahu: Israel's longest-serving PM fighting for survival
Summary
Benjamin Netanyahu is fighting for political survival in a closely contested Israeli election as public anger over the October 7 Hamas attack and the Gaza war continues to erode his security-first image. Facing an arrest warrant, a corruption trial and pressure from his rivals, he is campaigning on hardline security and anti-Palestinian themes.
Key Points
- Benjamin Netanyahu faces a neck-and-neck election battle against ex-military chief Gadi Eisenkot amid public anger over the October 7 Hamas attack.
- He is leaning on Donald Trump’s endorsement and warning voters against the emergence of a Palestinian state if his opponents win.
- Netanyahu also faces an international arrest warrant over alleged war crimes in Gaza and a long-running corruption trial.
- Despite criticism that he has deepened Israel’s conflicts, Netanyahu says he is the only leader who can keep the country safe.
