What it is about
Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party has surpassed Benny Gantz’s National Unity party in public preference, marking the first time since October 7 that Netanyahu has returned to a leading position according to a new “Maariv” poll.
Why it matters
This shift indicates that current geopolitical tensions, specifically looming threats from Iran and Hezbollah, have bolstered Netanyahu’s political standing. The implications are significant for Israeli politics, reflecting a realignment in voter sentiment and strategic political gains for Netanyahu and Likud.
Between the lines
The Maariv survey, conducted by Lazar Researches in collaboration with Panel4All, suggests a resurgent confidence in Netanyahu’s leadership amidst a volatile security situation in the region. His appeal as Prime Minister has now gained a slim majority preference over Benny Gantz, crystallizing at 42% versus Gantz’s 40%, with 18% of respondents undecided.
Flashback
Since October 7, Benny Gantz had enjoyed a lead in public favor due to the National Unity party’s stance and strategy. However, the alignment of current events and Netanyahu’s strong security credentials have reversed this trend, underscoring the population’s return to strong, tested leadership in times of crisis.
Details
The survey results indicate a strategic retreat of opposition parties from achieving a majority coalition of 61 seats. Currently, the coalition bloc under Netanyahu retains 53 mandates, while the opposition has 57 mandates, and Arab parties hold 10 mandates, hinting at a potential reshuffling in future election outcomes.
What they are saying
While Gantz’s party experiences declines and the formation of the Democratic Party influences the political landscape, respondents leaned towards favoring pragmatic diplomatic initiatives, with 48% supporting actions for the return of abductees, contrasted with 42% favoring pre-emptive military strikes against Iran and Hezbollah threats.
The big picture
The latest survey demonstrates an increasingly favorable perception of Netanyahu during turbulent times. Voter preferences reflect a boost in Likud’s projected seats, now at 22, overshadowing the National Unity Party at 20, and maintaining Netanyahu’s essential leadership role moving forward.
This story was first published on jpost.com.