Netanyahu (X/ @IsraeliPM)
New Delhi: Clear disagreement has emerged among Israeli voters regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plans to run for re-election in 2026. A recently released poll found a significant number of people opposed to him, raising questions about the strategy of the ruling Likud party.
According to the survey, 52 percent of Israelis said Netanyahu should not run again in the upcoming elections. Only 41 percent supported him, while 7 percent were still undecided. The public has named Yossi Cohen as a potential alternative to Netanyahu, who received the support of about 10 percent of voters within the Likud party. On the other hand, 44 percent of people considered opposition leader Naftali Bennett a better leader for the country.
According to the survey, if elections were held now, Netanyahu's coalition would win only 50 seats in the parliament (Knesset), compared to the 61 needed for a majority. The opposition coalition is projected to win 59 seats, and Arab parties 11 seats.
Netanyahu is the longest-serving prime minister, having held power for five separate terms. However, in recent years he has been embroiled in controversy over corruption allegations and matters related to the Gaza War. In 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) even issued an arrest warrant against him for war crimes.
There are clear signs of potential change in Israel's evolving political landscape. Netanyahu has hinted that the next general election could be held as early as June 2026, although this has not yet been officially confirmed. If the public truly distances itself from Netanyahu's leadership, the possibility of a leadership change within the Likud party could increase. Yossi Cohen is seen as a leading candidate. Meanwhile, opposition parties may have to form an alliance with Arab parties to secure a majority, a position they have currently rejected.
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