Global Powers Hope for Political Shift in Upcoming Israeli Elections

As Israel approaches its general elections in less than two months, international diplomats are closely monitoring the political landscape in Jerusalem. Several European diplomats, speaking to N12, expressed their governments' strong desire for a political change in Israel, with one describing the current situation as "four years of low relations" and stating, "We are waiting for the f…ing change." These diplomats voiced frustration with the "extreme right-wing government" that they believe has alienated Europe. Other Western diplomats suggested that many Western nations would seek to quickly improve ties 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 on issues like Gaza and Iran.

Many countries have already established contacts 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. Both Western and Middle Eastern observers have resigned themselves to a period of relative political stagnation concerning Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria until a new government is formed. Concerns have been raised by a Western diplomat and an Arab source 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 watching the elections with anticipation. An Arab source familiar with regional relations indicated that Egypt and Jordan hope for a government change 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 war, and relations between Cairo, Amman, and Jerusalem have deteriorated over the past two and a half years.

While former U.S. President Donald Trump is known for his willingness to intervene in elections and support right-wing candidates, he has not publicly endorsed Netanyahu, despite praising his conduct during the war. Despite the expressed hopes for change and potential diplomatic overtures, European diplomats emphasized that their governments would strictly avoid interfering in Israel's internal politics and would respect its democratic process.