Poll Leak Reveals Tensions in Anti-Netanyahu Bloc Over Leadership

A leaked recording of a political poll has exposed ongoing tensions within the bloc opposing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, specifically concerning the leadership aspirations of Gadi Eisenkot and Naftali Bennett. The poll, broadcast by Channel 12 News, features a telephone surveyor asking respondents about potential election outcomes.

The question posed suggests that a strong showing by Eisenkot's party, potentially tying or surpassing the Likud party in Knesset seats, could be the deciding factor in forming a "change government" versus a Netanyahu-led government. The poll's framing implies that Bennett's party, "Yamina," achieving either 8 or 12 seats would not significantly alter this outcome, highlighting Eisenkot's potential pivotal role.

This revelation comes amid weeks of friction within the anti-Netanyahu coalition. Reports indicate that Bennett and Avigdor Lieberman recently met, with both reportedly interested in uniting after the election to potentially secure the mandate to form a government, bypassing Eisenkot. Despite a recent "calming" meeting between Lieberman and Eisenkot, the internal power struggle appears to persist.

The recording underscores the complex political maneuvering and leadership challenges faced by the opposition as they seek to unseat Netanyahu.