Netanyahu’s Bid to Stay in Power Will Test His Political Savvy
After losing ground in Israel’s election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must draw on decades of political capital and reckon with old foes if he is to build a governing coalition.
Benjamin Netanyahu's struggle to stay in power is a significant development in Israeli politics. After his party, Likud, lost ground in the recent election, Netanyahu faces an uphill battle to build a governing coalition. This is a critical test of his political savvy, as he must navigate complex alliances and negotiate with old foes to secure the necessary support.
Netanyahu's ability to form a coalition will depend on his capacity to build relationships with other parties, including those with which he has had contentious relationships in the past. His opponents, including Benny Gantz and his Blue and White party, will likely drive a hard bargain, seeking concessions and policy changes in exchange for their support. The outcome will have significant implications for Israel's future, including its relations with the Palestinians, its economy, and its security.
As Netanyahu works to build a coalition, there are several factors to watch. Will he be able to secure the support of ultra-Orthodox parties, which have historically been allies but are also demanding greater concessions? How will he navigate the demands of his own party, which may be wary of concessions to other parties? And what will be the implications of his efforts for Israel's relations with the United States and other key allies? The coming days and weeks will provide important insight into Netanyahu's political strategy and the future of Israeli politics.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. NewsDebate adds analysis for general news readers.