Fear and Anger Shape Israel’s Election as Netanyahu Faces Crucial Test

Israel’s election is shaping up as a decisive test for Benjamin Netanyahu, with fear and anger over wars and internal divisions influencing the contest and the prospects for a change of government.

Palestinian citizens of Israel and Palestinians abroad are hoping the vote will bring a different government to power. Whether those hopes translate into a political shift remains uncertain, with no clear path to an alternative majority.

Gadi Eisenkot is seeking to turn anger over the wars and divisions into political momentum. His challenge is to convert public discontent into support capable of reshaping the balance of power.

For Netanyahu, the contest will test whether frustration with his government outweighs the fears that can influence voters’ choices. The competing pressures make the election more than a straightforward judgment on his leadership.

The central question is not only whether Netanyahu’s opponents can gain ground, but whether they can assemble a governing majority. Without that, even a strong desire for change may fail to produce a new government.