Public Poll Shows Overwhelming Negative Ratings for Israeli Ministers, Yoav Kisch Hits Record Low

A recent poll conducted by Channel 12 News reveals widespread public dissatisfaction with the current Israeli government ministers, with all those surveyed receiving predominantly negative evaluations for their performance. Education Minister Yoav Kisch stands out with the harshest criticism, as 69% of respondents rated him poorly, while only 19% gave him a positive score. Notably, Kisch is the only minister to receive a majority of negative ratings even from voters within the Netanyahu bloc, marking an unprecedented low for a sitting coalition minister, especially at the end of the school year.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich shares a similarly poor rating, with 69% negative and 25% positive assessments. Other senior cabinet members also face significant disapproval: National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir received 63% negative versus 32% positive ratings, Defense Minister Israel Katz had 61% negative against 30% positive, Justice Minister Yariv Levin was rated poorly by 60% compared to 27% positive, and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar ended with 54% negative and 29% positive.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu himself garnered 58% negative ratings on his performance, with 38% viewing it positively. The poll also explored public opinion amid coalition disputes over credit for the return of hostages. While Finance Minister Smotrich claimed credit, and Netanyahu took the achievement for himself, 58% of respondents attributed the success primarily to former U.S. President Donald Trump, with only 28% crediting the Netanyahu government.

Regarding leadership preferences, 58% of the public favor a different candidate as prime minister, while 33% support Netanyahu continuing in office. The survey also showed strong opposition to the recently passed Basic Law defining Torah study as a fundamental value, with 66% opposing the legislation and only 21% supporting it.