Netanyahu's Approval Rises Amid Ongoing Conflict with Hezbollah
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is experiencing a surge in approval ratings as the conflict with Hezbollah escalates in Lebanon. Following a significant drop in his popularity after the Hamas attacks on October 7, recent polling indicates that Netanyahu's Likud party could secure 25 out of 120 Knesset seats if elections were held today, making it the largest party. According to Channel 12, Netanyahu's support has climbed to 38%, a notable recovery attributed to the ongoing military actions against Hezbollah.
Pollster Dahlia Scheindlin noted, "The regional clashes are good for Netanyahu... they clearly seem to be the factor that has contributed to his recovery." This shift comes after a period where Likud was projected to win only 17 seats, raising concerns about the stability of his coalition government. The renewed military focus on Hezbollah has played a crucial role in reversing the party's fortunes.
Netanyahu's UN Speech: A Balancing Act Between Domestic and International Pressure
As Netanyahu prepares for a highly anticipated speech at the UN General Assembly, he faces mounting criticism both domestically and internationally. In his address, he is expected to defend Israel's military strategy against Hezbollah and issue stern warnings to Iran regarding any potential attacks. Netanyahu's rhetoric suggests a hardline stance, asserting, "If you attack us, we will attack you," emphasizing Israel's military reach across the Middle East.
However, international calls for a ceasefire are growing louder, with influential countries like Germany and the USA advocating for a 21-day pause in hostilities. Critics of Netanyahu's approach argue that his strategy may not resonate well on the global stage, with former Israeli officials describing him as "almost persona non grata" at the UN due to his aggressive tactics. As the humanitarian crisis worsens in Lebanon, with over 600 reported deaths and tens of thousands displaced, the pressure on Netanyahu to adopt a more diplomatic approach intensifies.
The situation remains precarious as Netanyahu navigates the complexities of military engagement and international diplomacy, all while attempting to maintain his political standing at home.
