Netanyahu Vows to Remain in Politics Even if He Loses Election

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has informed close associates that he intends to remain active in politics and lead the Likud party, even if he fails to form the next government. In private conversations, Netanyahu stated, "We will do everything to win, but if we don't win, I have no intention of resigning. I will serve as opposition leader and we will win the next elections." This message is also directed at senior Likud officials, signaling that a potential loss of power would not lead to a succession battle within the party.

Political sources suggest this stance is influenced by Netanyahu's experience in 2021, when he was ousted from the premiership but returned within about a year and a half. He reportedly views a period in opposition as a temporary setback, from which he can strategize and return to power by identifying weaknesses in the ruling coalition. He previously declared in the Knesset that he would lead the Likud in opposition "with a straight back" until his return.

This declaration comes amid shifting poll numbers, with some surveys placing the Likud below Gadi Eisenkot's new party, "Yashar!" and indicating that Netanyahu's bloc may lack a majority to form a government. However, a recent Channel 13 poll showed Netanyahu's bloc leading the "change bloc" led by Eisenkot, 54 to 52 seats, though "Yashar!" itself polled at 22 seats while Likud dropped to 18.

The message to his inner circle and party leadership aims to preempt any internal challenges or preparations for a post-Netanyahu era within Likud, ensuring his continued leadership regardless of election outcomes.