Israeli Ex-General Gains Ground Following Inaugural Campaign Speech: Polls by Reuters

By Jeffrey Heller

JERUSALEM – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s strongest competitor in Israel’s upcoming April election, a well-liked former general, has seen a significant boost in popularity following his first campaign speech this week.

Despite the potential for change, analysts suggest that Netanyahu is likely to maintain his position by forming a right-wing coalition similar to the current government, based on recent polling data.

In a highly anticipated address, former military chief Benny Gantz, who leads the new centrist Resilience party, criticized the current leadership for being disconnected from the public and overly focused on retaining power. He delivered this speech after remaining silent since launching his campaign.

Recent surveys reveal a notable increase in support for Gantz’s party, which is polling between 19 and 24 seats in the 120-member parliament, up from previous estimates of 12 to 15. Nevertheless, Netanyahu’s Likud party remains in the lead, projected to secure 29 to 31 seats, similar to earlier projections.

Commentators have pointed out that Gantz may be the first serious challenger to Netanyahu in years, particularly regarding security issues, as Netanyahu enters his fourth term as prime minister. In his speech, Gantz emphasized his military background and expressed his intention to combine a strong approach to security with efforts for peace.

A political analyst noted that if Gantz maintains his upward trajectory and Likud’s support dwindles to around 28 seats, voters might sense a competitive race unlike any seen before.

The success of Gantz and the center-left parties could hinge on their ability to collaborate and garner enough voter backing to create a parliamentary bloc that surpasses a Likud-led coalition.

Additionally, Netanyahu’s ongoing legal challenges add unpredictability to the situation, as the attorney general is considering charges in three corruption cases, with decisions expected before the election on April 9. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing.

Even with Likud potentially leading in the election, some pundits suggest that other coalition partners may hesitate to align with a prime minister who is facing legal issues.