Overview
- Netanyahu's Likud issued a brief statement saying he will run for re‑election and expressed confidence in victory.
- A recent Israel Democracy Institute poll found a majority of Israelis think Netanyahu should not run, showing deep public weariness with his leadership.
- Polling indicates the current right‑wing coalition would probably fall short of a Knesset majority and the opposition would need to partner with Arab parties to form a government.
- The next election has not been formally called but Israeli law requires a vote by October, keeping the campaign timetable constrained.
- U.S.-Israel ties are a live factor in the race after President Trump publicly questioned Netanyahu's plans, pressed Israel over military moves in Lebanon, and urged a pardon for his corruption charges.