Netanyahu's coalition support down after Gallant sacking: Poll
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The fallout reflects a growing divide within the Israeli electorate, indicating that Netanyahu's Likud Party is facing a decline, now projected to secure just 24 seats.
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Israelis block a highway during a protest after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Security minister Yoav Gallant, in Tel Aviv, occupied Palestine, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. (AP)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ruling coalition is facing significant challenges as support continues to erode following his controversial decision to dismiss Security Minister Yoav Gallant, according to a new poll.
Conducted by the Lazar Institute and published in Maariv, the survey reveals a shifting political landscape, with Netanyahu's coalition projected to secure only 49 seats if elections were held today, compared to the opposition bloc's potential 61 seats – enough to form a majority in the 120-seat Knesset.
The decision to remove Gallant has stirred public discontent, with 57% of respondents opposing the dismissal and only 29% supporting it.
The fallout reflects a growing divide within the Israeli electorate, indicating that Netanyahu's Likud Party is facing a decline, now projected to secure just 24 seats if elections were held today.
The decline suggests that confidence in Netanyahu's leadership has been dented by recent actions and policies viewed as destabilizing.
Opposition gains momentum
The opposition parties, by contrast, appear to be gaining momentum. The National Unity Party, led by former Security Minister Benny Gantz, stands to secure 19 seats, while Yair Lapid's centrist Yesh Atid party is expected to gain 15 seats.
The two leaders have been outspoken critics of Netanyahu's handling of security matters and other critical issues, which may be bolstering their support among the electorate.
Read more: Gallant says no reason for troops to remain in Gaza
Adding to Netanyahu's challenges, the extremist Religious Zionism party, led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, appears to be struggling.
The party has fallen below the 3.25% electoral threshold for the second consecutive week, effectively barring it from the Knesset if trends hold.
Growing discontent
Analysts suggest that Gallant's dismissal, which was perceived as abrupt and politically motivated, may have intensified already-existing frustrations over Netanyahu's policies.
This discontent is reflected in the poll's findings, painting a grim picture for the coalition's prospects if new elections were called.
With Netanyahu's support dwindling and the opposition consolidating, the coming months could be pivotal for Israeli politics.
Read more: The maneuver orchestrated by Netanyahu to bring down Gallant: Maariv
