Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed his intention to run for re-election in the November 2026 parliamentary elections
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared his intention to seek re-election in the November 2026 parliamentary elections, signaling a potential return to power. This follows his recent return to office in December 2022 after the collapse of the ruling coalition.
Netanyahu, the leader of the right-wing Likud party, has a history of political influence, having served as prime minister from 1996 to 1999 and from 2009 to 2021. His current campaign includes claims of being the only person capable of ensuring Israel’s security, as well as a hardline approach to Hamas and a close relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump. The prime minister is currently facing three corruption trials, where he denies any wrongdoing, and has also been involved in controversial judicial reforms that have sparked widespread protests.
A recent Channel 12 poll indicates that Likud would win 72 seats in the Knesset if elections were held today, remaining the largest faction in the Knesset. The uptick in popularity follows an internationally brokered ceasefire with Hamas and the release of all remaining hostages.
In the aftermath of the internationally brokered ceasefire with Hamas and the release of all remaining hostages, Netanyahu’s political standing appears bolstered. However, his tenure has been marked by significant controversies, including the war in Gaza and the hostage crisis, for which he has faced both criticism and praise. The upcoming election will test his political resilience and public support, with his re-election potentially reshaping the political landscape of Israel.
Netanyahu has claimed he is “the only person capable of keeping Israel safe” and boasted about his close ties with U.S. President Donald Trump. He has a hardline stance on Hamas and initiated the 12-day air war with Iran in June. The prime minister is currently on trial in three corruption cases, in which he denies any wrongdoing. He has also pushed to limit the powers of Israel’s Supreme Court, triggering mass protests.
The polarizing leader of the right-wing Likud party, Netanyahu served as prime minister from 1996 to 1999 and from 2009 to 2021. He returned to office in December 2022 following the collapse of the ruling coalition.