Global Powers Hope for Political Shift in Israel's Upcoming Elections

As Israel approaches its general elections in less than two months, international diplomats are closely monitoring the political landscape in Jerusalem, with many expressing a strong desire for a change in government. Western diplomats, speaking to N12, revealed that their governments are hoping for a political shift, with one European diplomat stating, "After four years of a diplomatic low - we are waiting for a f***ing change." He added that "we gave up long ago on this far-right government, which managed to alienate all of Europe."

Additional Western diplomats suggested that many countries would seek to quickly improve relations with Jerusalem if the "Change Bloc" wins the election, potentially offering diplomatic incentives. However, some expressed skepticism about potential new leaders like Izakovich or Bennett, questioning how their policies would differ from those of Netanyahu regarding issues like Gaza and Iran. Many countries have already established contact with opposition candidates, some of whom have met with foreign diplomats.

European nations are reportedly delaying sanctions against Israel, including those targeting settlements and ministers Ben Gvir and Smotrich, to avoid bolstering the current government before the elections. There is also a sense of frustration and resignation regarding the expected political stalemate on issues concerning Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria until a new government is formed. Both Arab and Western sources expressed concern about potential "hasty and extreme" actions by the current Israeli government in the West Bank, Gaza, or Iran before the elections.

Neighboring countries are also keenly observing the elections. An Arab source indicated that Egypt and Jordan are anticipating a change in government and are preparing to reinstate their ambassadors to Israel if a more moderate government is established. The Egyptian and Jordanian ambassadors left Israel during the recent conflict, and relations between Cairo, Amman, and Jerusalem have deteriorated over the past two and a half years.

While former US President Donald Trump's potential intervention is a significant unknown, given his history of supporting right-wing candidates, he has not publicly endorsed Netanyahu, despite praising his wartime conduct. Despite the expressed hopes for change, European diplomats emphasized that their governments would strictly avoid interfering in Israel's internal politics and would respect its democratic process.