Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has announced that he will seek another term in office during the country’s November 2026 parliamentary elections, despite facing widespread criticism and waning popularity over his handling of the Gaza War.
Netanyahu’s recent leadership has been overshadowed by a series of controversies — from the deeply divisive judicial reform bill and ongoing hostage crisis to allegations of corruption and the QatarGate scandal. His policies have drawn criticism across both conservative and liberal circles in Israel, with many accusing him of undermining the country’s democratic institutions.
In a recent interview, when asked if he planned to run again, Netanyahu responded simply, “Yes.” Pressed further on whether he expected to win, he reaffirmed, “Yes.”
The long-serving leader of the right-wing Likud Party first became prime minister in 1996, serving until 1999, and then again from 2009 to 2021. He returned to power in December 2022 following the collapse of Israel’s previous coalition government.
Netanyahu maintains that he is “the only person capable of keeping Israel safe,” often citing his close ties with former U.S. President Donald Trump as evidence of his diplomatic strength. His hardline stance against Hamas and his authorization of the 12-day air war with Iran in June have fueled concerns that Israel may be preparing for another round of conflict once the Gaza campaign concludes.
Currently, Netanyahu is standing trial on three separate corruption charges, all of which he denies. However, his efforts to curtail the powers of Israel’s Supreme Court have sparked months of mass protests and intensified debate over the country’s democratic future.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, Netanyahu’s bid for another term promises to test not only his political resilience but also Israel’s appetite for continuity amid crisis.