Former Minister Haim Ramon Predicts Next Israeli Prime Minister

Former Justice Minister Haim Ramon, who claims an unbroken record of accurate election predictions since 1999, forecasts that no political bloc will secure the 61-seat majority needed to form a government in the upcoming elections. He further asserts that without such a majority, Benjamin Netanyahu will not be the next prime minister.

Ramon explained his predictive success by stating he analyzes polls objectively, unlike others who interpret them based on desired outcomes. He recalled predicting Netanyahu would win 61 or 62 seats in a previous election, an outcome he was not happy about.

He also commented on the potential impact of the Iranian regime's fall, suggesting it would be a major strategic event reshaping the Middle East and significantly benefiting Netanyahu by allowing him to claim credit for regional changes. Ramon also analyzed Avigdor Lieberman's political stance, noting that despite past statements against coalition with Arab parties, Lieberman has previously formed governments with them. Ramon believes Lieberman is now singularly focused on becoming prime minister, and that Benny Gantz's supporters should vote directly for him to ensure a change in leadership.

Regarding potential coalition dynamics, Ramon predicted that any "change government" similar to the short-lived Bennett-Lapid administration would be a minority government that would not last long. He expressed concern over the lack of ideological debate in the current election campaign, describing it as shallow and lamenting that the next Knesset will likely face annexation proposals for territories without clear ideological stances from parties like Gantz's National Unity.