Poll Indicates Israeli Opposition Could Form Government as Majority Favor Netanyahu's Retirement

A recent public opinion poll conducted by the Lazar Institute for Maariv newspaper reveals that Israel’s opposition bloc could secure the 61 seats necessary to form a government if elections were held immediately. The survey, involving 502 Israelis, indicates a significant shift in political sentiment, with the ruling coalition projected to drop to 49 seats while the Jewish opposition rises to 61. Additionally, 55% of respondents expressed a preference for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to retire from political life, compared to 38% who want him to continue leading the Likud party. This decline in support for Netanyahu’s bloc is attributed to ongoing uncertainties regarding the war with Iran, tensions in Lebanon, and domestic social violence. Meanwhile, the Knesset is preparing to vote on dissolving parliament, with early elections potentially scheduled for September, ahead of the term's end in October. The political instability occurs against the backdrop of International Criminal Court arrest warrants issued for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in late 2024.