The political landscape is changing ahead of the next parliamentary elections in Israel. Reserve General Gadi Eisenkot, former Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, has emerged as a key rival to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Modern.az reports that The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) wrote about this.
According to the publication, the rating of the centrist "Yashar" Party led by Eisenkot has significantly increased in recent months. Polls show that the party currently has almost the same level of support as Netanyahu's "Likud" Party.
According to the information, parliamentary elections are expected to be held in Israel by the end of October. This will be the first nationwide election since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, as well as the wars with Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran.
WSJ writes that Netanyahu, who has been prime minister for approximately 19 years, is facing a serious political struggle this time. One of the main reasons for this is the harsh criticism of the government within the country due to the results of the war with Iran.
According to a survey conducted by "Agam Labs" in June, 92 percent of Israelis believe that Iran either won or benefited from the recent war.
One of the main factors increasing Eisenkot's popularity is his personal tragedy. Although he joined the Netanyahu government after the October 2023 attack, he resigned eight months later, accusing the prime minister of prolonging the war and risking the lives of hostages.
The general's 25-year-old son, Gal Eisenkot, was killed during fighting in Gaza. His two nephews also lost their lives in that war. It is reported that the general's personal tragedy, who could not hold back his tears at his son's funeral, resonated greatly with voters.
According to a recent poll commissioned by Israeli State Television, both Netanyahu's and Eisenkot's parties are predicted to win 23 seats in parliament. Other opposition leader Naftali Bennett lags behind with 16 seats.
In a poll about who is a more suitable candidate for the prime minister's post, 41 percent of respondents chose Eisenkot, and 40 percent chose Netanyahu.
