Israeli election to test Benjamin Netanyahu's ability to hold power
Israel faces a pivotal parliamentary election as voters weigh Benjamin Netanyahu's long-standing leadership against concerns over judicial reforms and the handling of the October 7 attacks. Public opinion remains deeply divided between supporters who view him as a strong protector and critics who demand a change in government.
Why it matters
The election outcome will determine Israel's political direction and its approach to regional security and internal governance.
Tens of thousands marched in Tel Aviv last night demanding Benjamin Netanyahu's government answer for the failures that led to the Oct. 7, 2023, terror attacks. "We cannot be a dictatorship!" said one woman. "And we cannot have these criminals running our country." Tuesday will be the first parliamentary elections since the attacks. Thirty-nine parties are running, but essentially one man is on the ballot: Netanyahu. Over three decades, Netanyahu — known here as Bibi — has dominated Israeli politics.And in a market outside Tel Aviv, opinions about the prime minister are as varied as the offerings here. Asked whom he will vote for, restaurant owner Benny Abraham replied, "Likud and Bibi Netanyahu.""Bibi can handle the whole world," Abraham said. "Bibi is charismatic. He has a strong voice. The world loves him."
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