Netanyahu's Tactics Risk Right-Wing Bloc's Election Chances, Analyst Warns

An Israeli political analyst warns that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's efforts to undermine the newly formed party led by former general Ofer Winograd are jeopardizing the right-wing bloc's chances in upcoming elections. Netanyahu is reportedly attempting to prevent Winograd's party from crossing the electoral threshold, a move the analyst suggests could lead to the "burning" of valuable votes for the entire right-wing camp.

The analyst criticizes opposition leader Yair Lapid, stating he wasted a significant public mandate due to a political boycott that became an overarching goal, hindering his ability to govern effectively. The piece argues that true leadership involves absorbing temporary public criticism for the sake of long-term national interest, suggesting Lapid should have explained to his voters the benefits of entering coalition governments.

Similarly, the article points to Benny Gantz's declaration that he will not sit with Arab parties, presenting him with a structural dilemma. If Gantz cannot secure a majority without their support, he faces a choice similar to Lapid's: compromise for influence or remain politically sidelined. The current political stalemate, characterized by a lack of decisive outcomes, has led to Netanyahu remaining as a caretaker prime minister or the formation of unnatural coalitions, the consequences of which have already been experienced.

The analysis also touches on the potential impact of Winograd's entry into the political arena, noting that while Netanyahu is currently trying to block him, this pressure is expected to dissipate after candidate lists are finalized. At that point, Netanyahu may need to be careful not to appear as actively endangering the right-wing bloc's majority. Potential partners, such as Yaron Zelekha, are also advised to approach negotiations with Winograd humbly, as excessive demands could lead to their political exclusion.