Netanyahu’s Likud party is projected to have won the most seats of any single party, report says

On Tuesday night, supporters gathered at Likud's election headquarters in Jerusalem, chanting "Only Bibi!" with confidence in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The atmosphere was filled with classic Israeli songs in Mizrahi renditions, and journalists were present to witness the event. The venue was adorned with blue and white colors and campaign posters displaying the slogan, "Either the Right or Palestine."

Channel 14's exit polls suggested a more favorable outcome for Likud compared to other broadcasters. However, even with the initial projections, Likud had not secured a parliamentary majority. Meir Cohen, a long-time Likud member, expressed unwavering trust in Netanyahu's ability to form a government. He stated, "I trust Bibi," when asked how he would navigate the uncertainty ahead.

The initial exit polls from channels 11, 12, and 13 projected Likud to win 24-25 seats, placing Netanyahu's bloc at 50, just short of the 60 seats needed for a majority. These projections remained preliminary, as the vote count and subsequent negotiations would determine the formation of the next government.

Supporters interviewed by the Post remained confident that Netanyahu would find a way to assemble a coalition. Meir Cohen traced his connection to Likud back to his birth in 1973, mentioning that Menachem Begin had been his godfather. When asked about the initial projections, Cohen expressed distrust in all polls except Channel 14's.

Tomer Shlomi Mishkaf Lavan, another supporter, emphasized the need for unity and hoped for four years of quiet, an end to protests, and a different atmosphere between Israelis. He believed that Netanyahu, as a strong leader, could bring the country together. Mishkaf Lavan spoke of the divisions that have fueled angry exchanges, burning tires, and blocked roads over the past four years, urging for mutual responsibility and love among people.

The supporters at Likud headquarters expressed a deep personal faith in Netanyahu's ability to guide the country and mend its rifts. They emphasized that domestic solidarity and security were intertwined in their expectations for the next government. As the count continued, the familiar refrain echoed throughout the hall: "Only Bibi."