Gadi Eizenkot Surges Ahead of Netanyahu as Opposition Nears Majority in New Poll

A new Maariv poll reveals that Gadi Eizenkot continues to strengthen his lead over Benjamin Netanyahu, with the opposition bloc gaining momentum and approaching a decisive 60 seats in the Knesset, just shy of the 61-seat majority needed to form a coalition. Despite previous polls granting the Reservists' Party (Beit Tzioni) four seats, the latest survey shows it falling below the electoral threshold with only 2.9% support. This decline highlights a significant shift in voter preferences ahead of the 2026 elections.

The poll also uncovers a growing concern among Israelis, with half of the population (50%) fearing that the losing side in the upcoming elections might refuse to accept the results. Meanwhile, 38% are not worried about this possibility, and 12% remain undecided. The survey reflects the tense political atmosphere as the opposition edges closer to challenging Netanyahu's long-standing leadership.

Additional insights from the poll include discussions within Likud about the possibility of reserving a Knesset seat for Yair Netanyahu, the prime minister's son, indicating internal party strategizing amid the shifting political landscape. The results underscore the volatility and high stakes of the 2026 electoral contest in Israel.