Israel Elections: Polls Show Netanyahu Losing Support to Gadi Eisenkot

Israel’s upcoming parliamentary election on October 27 is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in recent history as polls show Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing an uphill battle to secure a fifth term.

Recent surveys from Israel’s leading broadcasters—Channels 11, 12, and 13—consistently indicate that Netanyahu’s Likud party is losing ground to the opposition bloc, which is now polling within striking distance of the 61-seat majority required to form a government. Political analysts point to rising public dissatisfaction with Netanyahu’s leadership, particularly over issues of governance, economic pressures, and ongoing security concerns, as key factors eroding his support.

Among opposition figures, Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the newly formed Yashar party, is emerging as a strong challenger. Eisenkot, a former military chief of staff with a reputation for integrity and pragmatism, has overtaken Netanyahu in multiple polls as the public’s preferred candidate for prime minister. His campaign has focused on anti-corruption, judicial reform, and national unity, resonating with voters seeking an alternative to Netanyahu’s polarizing tenure.

The political landscape has shifted dramatically since the last election. The opposition bloc, comprising parties such as Yesh Atid, National Unity, and Yashar, has consolidated its messaging around governance and accountability. Meanwhile, Netanyahu’s Likud and its far-right allies continue to emphasize security and conservative values, but their message is struggling to cut through amid high inflation, housing costs, and public frustration over judicial reforms.

Political analysts suggest that Eisenkot’s appeal is particularly strong among centrist and undecided voters who are wary of Netanyahu’s legal troubles and prolonged rule. His military background also lends him credibility on national security, a traditional strong suit for Netanyahu’s camp.

As October 27 approaches, the race remains fluid, with several undecided voters still weighing their options. Polling data indicates that a significant portion of the electorate could still swing toward either bloc depending on late-breaking developments, including security incidents or economic announcements.

The election is widely seen as a referendum on Netanyahu’s legacy, which includes economic growth but also deep political divisions and legal controversies. Should the opposition succeed in securing a majority, it could mark the end of Netanyahu’s 15-year tenure as prime minister, the longest in Israel’s history.

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