As the families of Israeli captives held in Gaza march from Tel Aviv to Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem on Saturday, Israel’s longest-serving premier has never been less popular. A recent poll shows that Netanyahu’s popularity among Israeli Jews is at an all-time low of 4 percent, and both his opponents and traditional allies are calling for him to resign once the current war ends.
Experts attribute Netanyahu’s vulnerability to his role in what is considered the greatest intelligence security failure in Israel’s history. Since winning elections last November and forming the most right-wing government in the country’s history, Netanyahu has faced criticism and protests over his attempts at judicial reforms. However, the events of October 7, when Hamas fighters attacked southern Israel, have further eroded his support.
Reportedly, 94 percent of the Israeli population believes that Netanyahu’s government bears at least partial responsibility for the October 7 attack. Many Israelis are frustrated with his seeming lack of interest in freeing the more than 200 captives held in Gaza. Despite efforts by Qatar and other nations to mediate the release of some captives, Netanyahu has refused a larger deal for a temporary ceasefire until all hostages are freed.
While Netanyahu has enjoyed the support of US President Joe Biden in opposing a ceasefire, international protests and disapproval within the Democratic Party are growing. However, Netanyahu’s own support base is fraying. Members of his own Likud party have expressed discontent, with some even quitting the party altogether due to a lack of government support.
The media, including right-wing newspaper Israel Hayom, has also called for Netanyahu to take responsibility for the current situation. It appears that Netanyahu’s government is being held together primarily by the far-right, which takes advantage of the focus on Gaza to further its agenda in the West Bank.
As Netanyahu’s popularity has plummeted, former Defense Minister Benny Gantz has seen a rise in his own popularity. Gantz, who is also a member of Netanyahu’s war cabinet, criticized the prime minister for the intelligence failure leading to the October 7 attack. However, other critics within Netanyahu’s camp, including opposition leader Yair Lapid, have refused to join his team.
The cost of the war effort is taking a toll on the Israeli economy, with estimates of approximately $260 million daily. Public support is mounting against Netanyahu, and international support is also waning as the death toll in Gaza rises. Many experts believe that the war will not end in the decisive victory that Israelis have been led to believe, which could have political consequences for Netanyahu.
Despite facing corruption charges in the past, Netanyahu has managed political comebacks before. However, experts believe that this current situation may be fatal for him politically. Nevertheless, some acknowledge that if anyone could engineer a path to survival, it would be Netanyahu.
In conclusion, Netanyahu’s popularity has hit rock bottom as the families of captives held in Gaza demand his resignation. The October 7 attack and his perceived lack of interest in freeing the captives have contributed to his declining support. While he continues to enjoy some international support, cracks are emerging within his own party and the far-right allies that have backed him. The war effort is also taking a toll on the Israeli economy, further fueling public discontent. Whether Netanyahu can survive politically remains to be seen, but experts believe that this may be his most challenging battle yet.
