Netanyahu's 2022 Victory Speech Promises Versus Current Reality

In a November 2022 victory speech following the 25th Knesset elections, then-opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu promised to restore national pride, strengthen security, and lower the cost of living, aiming to return Israel to its status as a rising power. Now, nearly four years into his premiership, an analysis contrasts these pledges with the current situation.

On security, Netanyahu had vowed to protect soldiers and avoid unnecessary adventures while being firm and seeking peace. However, prior to the October 7th Hamas attack, Israel experienced numerous terror incidents and faced provocations from Hezbollah, including the establishment of a tent in Israeli territory, with the government opting for diplomacy over a strong military response. The article notes that the assumption of Hamas being deterred and focused on economic relief proved disastrously wrong on October 7th, leading to the massacre and subsequent war.

Regarding the economy, Netanyahu's promise to lower the cost of living has largely gone unfulfilled. A ministerial committee formed to address the issue never reconvened, and promises to freeze property taxes, lower electricity and water prices, and reduce VAT have not materialized. While fuel prices saw a minor reduction recently, it followed a period of record highs.

The article also touches on the judicial overhaul, which was a central focus of the government's early tenure but was notably absent from Netanyahu's victory speech. This initiative, along with the subsequent protests, is seen by many as having contributed to internal divisions.

Internationally, Netanyahu pledged to expand the circle of peace and restore Israel's standing. While the Abraham Accords were advanced, the prospect of Saudi normalization, once seemingly close, receded significantly after October 7th. Furthermore, an international arrest warrant from the Hague has restricted Netanyahu's travel, limiting his ability to engage with many world leaders. Relations with Western nations have also deteriorated, with several countries imposing trade restrictions on settlements deemed illegal under international law.