Ex-Minister Ramon Predicts Netanyahu Cannot Continue as PM

Former Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Haim Ramon presented a stark election forecast on Monday, asserting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be unable to continue in his role. Ramon, who claims a consistent record of accurate election predictions since 1999, stated that neither political bloc will reach the 61-seat majority required to form a government. He anticipates Arab parties will secure 13 to 15 seats.

Ramon elaborated that, unlike in previous elections, Arab parties will not permit Netanyahu to remain as a caretaker prime minister. He predicted they would support Benny Gantz for prime minister, even if he does not join the coalition and despite any personal objections Gantz might have. Ramon described this as the prevailing sentiment within the Arab sector.

However, Ramon outlined a dramatic exception to his forecast: if the Iranian regime collapses before the elections, his entire prediction becomes invalid. He described such an event as strategically significant for the Middle East, potentially boosting Netanyahu's political standing.

Additionally, Ramon analyzed Avigdor Lieberman's political strategy, stating Lieberman is determined to achieve a rotation as prime minister. He noted Lieberman's attacks on Gantz, accusing him of lacking political understanding and demanding a rotation agreement.

Ramon also predicted that Ofir Winter's "Am Israel" party will not pass the electoral threshold, while Bezalel Smotrich's party is assured of success. He concluded by criticizing the current election discourse as lacking ideological substance and being shallow.