Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is racing against time to pass a state budget and avoid early elections he would likely lose, according to Reuters. The war in Iran has not significantly improved his standing in the polls.
Key Takeaways
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is working to avoid early elections by passing a state budget before March 31. Despite initial hopes that the war in Iran would boost his popularity, polls show no significant change in voter support. Netanyahu faces challenges from political allies and opposition parties as he navigates both domestic and international issues.
- Netanyahu seeks to pass a $225 billion budget to avoid early elections
- Polls show little change in voter support despite the war in Iran
- Netanyahu's coalition risks losing majority if elections are held soon
- Political allies demand funds for key constituencies to secure votes
The war's initial days presented an opportunity for Netanyahu's right-wing coalition to capitalize on the opening salvo that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, nearly four weeks into a conflict that has so far failed to achieve its stated objective of toppling Iran's clerical rulers, Israel's longest-serving prime minister is looking to stave off early elections.
To avoid an early contest, Netanyahu has been allocating funds to political allies and rushing the budget through parliament. He has consistently rejected calls to bring elections forward during a time of war, as reported by The Guardian. In public remarks since 2023, Netanyahu has emphasized the importance of fulfilling the government's term.
Polls consistently show around 40% of voters sticking with Netanyahu's coalition and another 40% backing opposition parties. The remaining swing vote has not moved in favor of Netanyahu, according to Reuters. Despite national support for the war against Iran, voter sentiment remains unchanged since October 7, 2023.
The economic impact of the war is significant, with estimates suggesting it costs Israel five billion shekels ($1.6 billion) per week. The government has also approved an additional 32 billion shekels for defense costs. Netanyahu faces political challenges from his long-running corruption trial and demands from key constituencies.
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