Likud Sees Bennett's Delay on Gadi Eizenkot Endorsement as Netanyahu's Strategic Advantage

Ahead of the 2026 elections, Likud insiders believe that Naftali Bennett has yet to commit to recommending Gadi Eizenkot for president to Isaac Herzog. This perceived hesitation is seen as a potential advantage for Benjamin Netanyahu, who aims to secure the mandate to form the next government by emerging as the leader of the largest and most unified party after the elections.

A Likud source explained that Netanyahu's strategy involves running an aggressive campaign within the right-wing bloc to surpass Eizenkot's support. The goal is for Netanyahu to be the sole candidate backed by a large, cohesive party, while the opposing camp remains divided among several contenders.

Likud officials expect that the split over the presidential recommendation could give Netanyahu a decisive edge during consultations with the president. They also hope that if Netanyahu receives the mandate, it will pressure undecided parties and Knesset members to join his government. Likud plans to use the negotiation period to dismantle the opposition camp, recruit additional partners, and secure a governing majority.