Commentators Accused of Bias Ahead of Israeli Elections

Yossi Ahimeir, a commentator, has criticized political analysts whom he claims are hoping for the Likud party and Benjamin Netanyahu's defeat in the upcoming elections, presenting definitive predictions just two months before the vote. Ahimeir acknowledges that concerns exist regarding the Likud's candidate list, internal party struggles, and insufficient activity from senior members.

He urges readers to save the Friday edition of the Maariv newspaper until the end of October to see which of the dire predictions for the right, including unfavorable polls, come true. The deadline for submitting candidate lists for the 26th Knesset is a week away, with less than two months remaining until election day, and unforeseen events could still occur.

Ahimeir suggests that some commentators consistently predict a Likud loss and Benny Gantz's rise to prime minister, citing polls showing Likud's decline and Yesh Atid's growth. However, he notes that other polls show Likud exceeding 30 seats, with Netanyahu deemed the most suitable leader. He asserts that predictions of a Likud defeat are often driven by the writer's personal desires, referencing specific articles that described the Likud as a "sinking ship" and Netanyahu as heading for defeat.

While admitting some basis for predicting a Likud loss exists, even among unbiased analysts, Ahimeir points to the party's candidate list, internal conflicts like Haim Katz's actions against Gila Gamliel, and the uncertain status of some key candidates. He also criticizes complacent Likud candidates who are not actively campaigning, with some even vacationing abroad, relying on Netanyahu to secure victory.

Ahimeir questions the lack of party campaigning against potential future coalition partners like Yair Golan and Avigdor Lieberman, and against what he calls false propaganda regarding the government's failures post-October 7th. He wonders if an aggressive campaign will begin after the final candidate lists are confirmed. The emergence of the "Am Israel" party led by Y Winter is also seen as a threat, potentially drawing votes away from Likud, despite Winter's pledge to recommend Netanyahu.

Ahimeir concludes by predicting that left-leaning commentators, eager for Likud's downfall, will intensify their rhetoric and potentially their ignorance. He reiterates his intention to save the polls and analyses to see how inaccurate they prove to be after October 27th, anticipating that commentators will need to prepare excuses.