Bennett Surges as Netanyahu Coalition Falters
Naftali Bennett’s new party projected to lead with 29 seats. Netanyahu’s coalition drops to 50, losing its Knesset majority.
A new Channel 13 poll forecasts a dramatic reshaping of Israeli politics: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition would fall far short of a majority if elections were held today, securing just 50 out of 120 seats. The biggest surprise comes from former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, whose new political party is projected to win 29 seats—more than any other.
The poll indicates growing disillusionment with Netanyahu’s leadership during the Gaza war, despite Likud maintaining its previous support at 20 seats.
Bennett Reemerges as Dominant Political Force
Bennett, who previously served as premier in 2021–2022, has seen a resurgence fueled by dissatisfaction with the current government’s handling of the conflict. His party’s projected 29-seat showing places him as a potential kingmaker or even frontrunner in a post-Netanyahu era.
Meanwhile, Yair Golan’s Democrats dropped slightly to eight seats following controversial remarks criticizing Israel's military actions in Gaza, while centrist Yesh Atid fell sharply to just seven seats from its previous 24.
Gaza War Continues to Polarize Public Opinion
The poll found that 67% of Israelis support ending the Gaza war as part of a hostage deal—demonstrating strong public appetite for a resolution to the ongoing conflict. Conversely, 22% oppose such an agreement.
Support for the expanded ground operation in Gaza remains evenly split, with 44% in favor and 40% against, highlighting continued domestic division over Israel’s military approach.