Netanyahu’s political survival on the line as Israel votes
Summary
Benjamin Netanyahu faces a close election battle in Israel as voters weigh his wartime leadership, the October 7 attacks and the Gaza war. A rival bloc led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot is challenging him, with coalition math likely to decide who can form the next government.
Key Points
- Benjamin Netanyahu is fighting for political survival in Israel’s election amid scrutiny over the October 7 Hamas attacks, the Gaza war and Israel’s isolation.
- Opinion polls show a tight contest between Netanyahu’s Likud-led bloc and a rival alliance led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot.
- Netanyahu may again need far-right allies Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich to build a governing coalition.
- If no bloc secures a majority, Netanyahu could remain caretaker prime minister until another election is held next year.
