Gadi Eizenkot Matches Likud in Polls, Shifting Focus from Bennett to Netanyahu

A recent News 12 poll reveals a political shift in Israel as Gadi Eizenkot's party, Yisrael, ties with Benjamin Netanyahu's Likud at 23 seats each, marking a significant change in the right-center bloc dynamics. Until now, Eizenkot's main competition was with Naftali Bennett's Yesh Atid, but the poll shows Bennett's party weakening to 16 seats, widening the gap to Eizenkot by seven seats. This development positions Eizenkot as a potential leading party head in Israel, challenging Netanyahu not only in leadership but also in parliamentary strength.

The poll also highlights the critical role of smaller parties, which could prevent either bloc from reaching the 61-seat majority needed to form a government. Attempts to unite various factions, including a hypothetical "new party" combining figures like Benny Gantz, Smotrich, Gilad Erdan, Ayelet Shaked, and others, yield only six seats, insufficient to alter bloc balances significantly. Notably, a joint run by Gantz and Smotrich fails to cross the electoral threshold, potentially reducing Netanyahu's bloc.

The political landscape remains fragmented, with ongoing efforts to consolidate parties to avoid wasted votes. The coalition currently holds 52 seats, while the Zionist opposition has 58, leaving the government formation uncertain. Additionally, 21% of coalition voters consider switching to non-coalition parties following recent legislative deals between Netanyahu and ultra-Orthodox factions. The real impact of these legislative moves will become clearer as bills progress through further readings.

Eizenkot's rise in polls and the decline of Bennett and Lapid reflect shifting voter sentiments ahead of the elections. Netanyahu seeks to narrow the gap but has yet to see a clear recovery. The new right-center party faces challenges in justifying its existence without fresh faces or distinct added value, despite having some voter support. The evolving scenario underscores the importance of smaller parties and alliances in determining Israel's next government.