Gantz, Bennett, Lieberman Vie for Opposition Leadership in Israeli Election

A new poll reveals a divided opposition in Israel as the election approaches, with Gadi Eisenkot leading in preference for prime minister among "change bloc" supporters, followed by Naftali Bennett and Avigdor Lieberman. While the opposition's stated goal is to unseat Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the internal competition for leadership is reportedly harming their chances of securing the necessary 61 Knesset seats.

According to the survey, 59% of opposition supporters believe Eisenkot is the de facto leader of the bloc, compared to 19% for Bennett and 11% for Lieberman. When asked who is most suitable for prime minister, Eisenkot garnered 53% support, Bennett 31%, and Lieberman 13%.

A significant portion of opposition voters, 52%, feel the three-way race is detrimental to their bloc's electoral prospects, while 38% disagree. The primary criterion for choosing a candidate, according to 65% of respondents, should be the number of mandates a party wins, rather than political experience, which was favored by only 25%.

Regarding the timing of announcing a candidate to replace Netanyahu, opinions are split: 37% want an immediate announcement, 34% prefer to wait closer to the election, and 17% are not interested in knowing at this stage.

The poll also examined Netanyahu supporters' preferences if the opposition bloc were to achieve a majority. Eisenkot leads with 25% support among this group, followed by Bennett (13%) and Lieberman (10%). However, a notable 52% of Netanyahu's supporters stated they do not know whom they would prefer to lead the government from the opposition candidates.

The central challenge for Eisenkot, Bennett, and Lieberman remains their ability to unite and attract voters beyond their existing bases, ultimately presenting a cohesive front against Netanyahu to achieve their shared objective of forming a new government.