Netanyahu’s political survival on the line as Israel votes

Benjamin Netanyahu finds his political existence hanging in the balance as Israelis head to the polls on Tuesday. The election comes as voters assess his performance following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks, the ensuing war in Gaza, and tensions with Iran. With Israel's complicated political landscape, Netanyahu's ability to form a government remains uncertain, though his long tenure as the nation's leader suggests he may still have a path forward.

Polls indicate a tight race between Netanyahu's Likud party and its right-wing allies, and a rival coalition led by Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief known for his hawkish stance. Both candidates are banking on US support, with Trump having endorsed Netanyahu and the US conducting joint operations with Israel. Eisenkot argues that Netanyahu relies on fear-mongering and lies to push his agenda, while Netanyahu believes Trump will back him to eliminate the Iranian threat.

Potential allies for Netanyahu include far-right leaders Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, despite international criticism for their alleged incitement against Palestinians. If neither Netanyahu nor Eisenkot can forge a coalition, Israel may remain without a government until the next election in 2025. The election follows a tumultuous period for Israel, marked by the 2023 attacks, Israel's military response in Gaza, and internal divisions over Netanyahu's policies.

Many opponents call for accountability regarding the security failures during the attacks, while supporters emphasize the need for a national inquiry to mend the country's wounds.