’Israeli’ Public Ready for Something New in Political Order

Local Editor

A Haaretz poll indicated that the public is ready for a new political order, but no Big Bang will occur unless an alternative to Netanyahu wins over right-wing voters; and the "Israeli" army chief Eisenkot was crowned the entity's most popular leading figure.

A year after the election for the 20th Knesset, and three-and-a-half years before the scheduled date of the next election, the local political map appears primed for another Big Bang. Zionist senior politicians are surviving in office due to a lack of alternatives, but they are weak and their leadership is brittle.

Most of the public is fed up with Benjamin Netanyahu, who this month marks seven consecutive years as prime minister. But now came the time when "Israeli" occupants want something new.

Indeed, that is the message that comes through loud and clear in all the internal surveys conducted by the parties. Netanyahu will have chalked up at least eight consecutive years in power, maybe nine or 10, by the time the next election is held. He may be hungry for more, but the people have had their fill.

Hence, Netanyahu would not be able to form a government. In contrast, the new party would have little trouble cobbling together a coalition.

Meanwhile, the temptation to be rid of Netanyahu is hefty in itself. But the majority of the electorate is located on the right or center, not on the left. There is no way governmental change can come about without the walls of the right-wing bloc being breached.

A majority of those asked expressed dissatisfaction with his overall performance. His image is hardly being bolstered by the current situation. A majority of "Israelis", 51 percent, wouldn't want to see him run again for prime minister.

Next week, the Knesset adjourns for its spring break. If any chance, however theoretical, remains for Netanyahu to strike a deal, it will have to happen in the next six weeks. This is his last opportunity to make a "peace of the brave" or, perhaps more appropriately, forge an alliance of the weak.

Source: Haaretz, Edited by website team