Arab Nations Watch Israeli Power Struggle With Concern Over Regional Impact

Arab media outlets are closely monitoring the political power struggle in Israel, with significant concerns extending beyond the election outcomes. While the possibility of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu losing power to Gadi Eisenkot is a prominent topic, many Arab commentators doubt that a new Israeli leader would substantially alter policies regarding Iran, the Gaza Strip, or the Palestinian issue. Analysis of major Arab publications and television channels, as reported by "Maariv," indicates that the potential defeat of Netanyahu and the subsequent change in government are viewed as critical for the entire region.

Commentators suggest that differences between the leading candidates may be more pronounced in domestic policy than in national security. Al Jazeera has focused on potential shifts in Israeli policy toward the Palestinians, referencing an assessment by Haaretz Editor-in-Chief Alof Benn that an Eisenkot victory might reform state institutions but not necessarily change foreign policy or the stance on Palestinian statehood.

Al-Arabi al-Jadeed highlights the risk of a continued political stalemate even after the vote, suggesting that an opposition win does not guarantee a stable government and that a prolonged crisis could lead to renewed military escalation. Palestinian newspaper Al-Quds features analyses from various commentators. Nizar Nazal predicts Netanyahu's bloc will win fewer seats, but notes Eisenkot could also struggle to form a coalition. Nazal also speculates that Netanyahu might use a military escalation with Iran to postpone elections, though this is presented as a commentator's hypothesis.

Adel Shadid reminds observers not to underestimate Netanyahu's ability to rally support in the final campaign days. Saudi channel Al-Sharq emphasizes that poll advantages do not guarantee a government change, stressing the need for 61 Knesset seats and considering the performance of smaller parties. Arab media also covers the participation of Arab citizens in the elections. Knesset Member Ahmed Tibi told Al Jazeera that the vote is pivotal, with the United List aiming to remove Netanyahu, Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Bezalel Smotrich from power, expressing readiness for parliamentary cooperation with other opposition parties.

Sami Abu Shehadeh, leader of the Balad party, links Arab voter engagement to fears of continued right-wing rule, seeing this apprehension as a key mobilization factor. Radio station Al-Shams reports on practical voting challenges, including access to polling stations for residents of unrecognized Bedouin villages in the Negev. The public support for Netanyahu from US President Donald Trump has also been a subject, with Al-Arabi al-Jadeed noting Trump's call to vote for Netanyahu and reports of Netanyahu seeking more active US support. Despite varied predictions on the winner, a common conclusion in Arab media is that Netanyahu's defeat alone does not ensure a change in Israel's regional policies, as key candidates may hold similar views on Iran, security, settlements, and Gaza.