The United States’ reaction To Benjamin Netanyahu’s victory in Israel’s most recent election has been subdued as decision-makers debate the ramifications for Middle East Foreign policy. When it became evident that the previous Prime Minister’s alliance would enable him to restore his position as the country’s leader, Prime Minister Yair Lapid conceded the election to Netanyahu on Thursday.
However, Netanyahu’s victory came while President Joe Biden was still in the White House, creating an unsettling contrast between American and Israeli political values.
Like its four predecessors, this election shared a fundamental fault line, if not a guiding concept. Do you support or oppose Netanyahu’s return? Love him or hate him, Netanyahu has served as Israel’s prime minister for the most prolonged period—73 years—in its history.
Importance of Netanyahu in Israel
Netanyahu is currently the most important politician in Israel, even though he is facing charges of bribery, fraud, and violation of trust. He is also on the verge of achieving what will likely be his most significant success: gaining a majority to resume the position of prime minister.
With Gvir and Netanyahu now leading a cult of personality, extreme nationalism, populism, and the “us against them” mindset will gain power in the wake of Netanyahu’s election, further dividing and polarizing the nation. Netanyahu has shown that he is risk-averse when making decisions about war and peace. Additionally, he will oppose Gvir’s proposals to dissolve the Palestinian Authority, annex the West Bank, and expel Palestinians, as well as work to prohibit Gvir from impacting Israel’s security.
