From Crisis to Comeback: Netanyahu’s Shifting Political Fortunes
In the immediate aftermath of the devastating Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared shaken and diminished. The surprise assault not only plunged the nation into crisis but also caused his public approval to nosedive, casting a shadow over his long tenure.
Fast forward to the current conflict with Iran, and Netanyahu seems revitalized. Boosted by the United States’ military support against the Iranian threat, he projects renewed confidence that could mark a pivotal chapter in his protracted political journey.
A Tarnished Legacy Finds New Momentum
At 75, Netanyahu faces a complex legacy marred by the Hamas attack, ongoing corruption trials, and deeply polarizing governance. Yet, the unfolding confrontation with Iran offers him a vital chance to restore his standing and potentially redefine public perception.
While the war is far from resolved—Israeli cities remain under missile threat and domestic political divisions persist—many Israelis resonate with Netanyahu’s longstanding warnings about Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The US’s active engagement in this new front underscores the gravity of the challenge and lends Netanyahu political capital at home.
Former aides acknowledge this shift. One remarked, "Netanyahu is seen as a divisive figure who talks much but acts little. Now, he’s redeemed himself significantly." Indeed, a rare smile broke through his usual stern demeanor when he publicly thanked US leadership after a key military strike on Iranian nuclear facilities.
The Iran Factor: Netanyahu’s Unyielding Focus
For decades, Netanyahu has framed Iran as Israel’s existential enemy. From his earliest days in office to his uninterrupted 16-year tenure, his primary mission has been to thwart Iran’s nuclear program and curb its missile development while exposing its backing of hostile groups on Israel’s borders.
His dramatic gestures—such as brandishing a mock bomb at the UN—were symbolic of this crusade, underscoring a message that resonated domestically and internationally. Yet, critics argue that this intense focus may have diverted attention and resources away from other security threats, notably Hamas.
The Shadow of Hamas: A Wound in Netanyahu’s Record
The unprecedented Hamas assault, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and the capture of 251 hostages, dealt a severe blow to Netanyahu’s reputation as a security hawk. The attack exposed vulnerabilities in Israel’s defenses and raised questions about intelligence failures and strategic miscalculations.
Many contend Netanyahu’s approach—allowing substantial aid into Gaza under the assumption that Hamas would be deterred—was gravely flawed. Following the attack, his approval ratings plummeted, and calls for accountability grew louder. Though Netanyahu has largely deflected blame toward security agencies, the stain on his legacy remains.
Looking Ahead: Political Ambitions and Uncertain Horizons
Despite ongoing military operations and a still-tense regional environment, Netanyahu harbors ambitions to broker normalization agreements with key Arab states like Saudi Arabia, which would further bolster his political legacy.
However, recent polls suggest challenges remain. Even with a possible short-term boost from the US-led efforts against Iran, forming a stable coalition ahead of next year’s elections remains uncertain.
Political observers draw parallels between Netanyahu and historical leaders like Winston Churchill, who despite wartime victories, faced electoral defeat due to shifting public priorities. As one close associate put it, "Even a political titan like Netanyahu may face limits to his reign."
Conclusion
Benjamin Netanyahu’s political journey is emblematic of resilience amid adversity. From the depths of crisis following Hamas’s shock attack to a potential resurgence fueled by confrontation with Iran, his fate hangs in a delicate balance. Whether this new conflict marks a turning point or a fleeting reprieve in a turbulent career will unfold in the coming months.
