Can Netanyahu bomb Iran as a caretaker PM? How US and Israeli elections could affect war
The US and Israel are hinting at new military action against Iran as both countries are preparing to vote in elections that could affect the course of the war. The Israeli general election on October 27 and the US midterms on November 3, are the biggest tests of public opinion for either country's leaders since they began the conflict in February. In Israel, polls suggest stalemate in which…
The United States and Israel are reportedly considering new military action against Iran as both nations prepare for their respective elections. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and President Donald Trump of the United States face significant challenges in the upcoming political events, which could influence their decision to launch strikes on Iran.
In Israel, there is no clear winner after the October 27 general election, with both Netanyahu and his main rival, Gadi Eisenkot, failing to secure a majority. This situation leaves Netanyahu as caretaker prime minister, meaning he maintains power but lacks formal authority. While there is no explicit prohibition preventing him from ordering military action against Iran, opposition leader Yair Lapid has cautioned against taking steps that may fundamentally alter the situation.
Netanyahu has indicated that if re-elected, he will maintain his hardline stance towards Iran, and some opposition leaders have expressed support for attacking Iran while opposing Palestinian statehood. Meanwhile, in the United States, congressional elections are taking place, along with gubernatorial races in multiple states. President Trump's authority as chief military commander is not reliant on Congressional majorities, meaning he could still authorize military strikes against Iran regardless of the election outcome.
However, a Republican defeat in the midterm elections could limit Trump's options, as the party could face increased domestic criticism over the war, particularly if high energy prices and potential disruptions to oil exports in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf energy markets are blamed. Moreover, a Democratic-controlled Congress might investigate the war, potentially stirring controversy for the administration.
Lastly, US military support for Israel, sanctions on Iran, and the nation's relationships with Gulf governments could all come under stricter scrutiny by the American public.
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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