Israeli Poll Shows Likud Support at 25 Seats, Bennett-Led Party at 22 Amid Coalition Deadlock

A recent poll conducted by Channel 12 News in Israel projects the Likud party, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with declining seats in the 120-seat Knesset. The poll was reported by Haaretz.

The opposition as a whole has strengthened in the poll, according to reports. These shifts occur amid ongoing political tensions in Israel.

Neither Netanyahu's bloc of right-wing and religious parties nor the opposition appears positioned to easily reach the 61 seats needed for a majority, potentially requiring support from Arab parties. Arab parties collectively hold a significant number of seats but have historically been reluctant to join certain coalitions. This situation reflects persistent difficulties in coalition formation.

The poll underscores the fragmented nature of Israeli politics, where no single bloc dominates.

Background includes Netanyahu's long tenure and legal challenges, as well as Bennett's previous role in a diverse coalition that ousted Netanyahu in 2021. The stakes involve potential elections and government stability affecting policy on security, economy, and international relations.

Those affected include Israeli citizens facing uncertainty in governance, particularly on issues like the economy and regional conflicts.

Arab communities may play a pivotal role in any coalition negotiations. The poll's results could influence party strategies leading up to possible future elections.

happens next may involve intensified negotiations among parties to build alliances.

If no majority is formed, early elections could be triggered, as has occurred in recent years. Haaretz reported the poll as indicating continued deadlock in Israeli politics.