Benjamin Netanyahu will run again in this year's election, according to his party. The announcement followed U.S. President Donald Trump's uncertain comments about whether Netanyahu would run again.
In a brief statement, the Likud Party said Netanyahu will compete in the election and "God willing, will win." The election date in Israel has not yet been officially announced, but the vote must take place by October at the latest.
Trump's remarks fuel debate
ABC News Washington Chief Correspondent Jonathan Karl reported that Trump told him he did not know if Netanyahu would run again. Trump's words, "I don't know, he's had a great career. Does he want to continue?" drew public attention.
This statement reignited discussions about Netanyahu's political future. The Israeli Prime Minister is also under pressure domestically as the election period approaches.
The election will be the first test after October 7
The next election in Israel will be the first since Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023. This attack is seen as the country's biggest security failure and triggered retaliatory strikes on the Gaza Strip.
Since returning to power in December 2022, Netanyahu has led Israel's most right-wing coalition in history. During his term, he has faced wars and widespread anti-government protests.
Polls paint a challenging picture for the coalition
Polls indicate that Netanyahu's coalition may not maintain its majority in the next election. According to a poll published on June 9 by the Jerusalem-based Israel Democracy Institute, 61% of Israelis believe Netanyahu should not run again.
Meanwhile, polls also suggest that opposition parties may not secure a majority in parliament unless they form a coalition with Arab parties. This complicates the post-election landscape further.
Close ties continue between Washington and Tel Aviv
U.S. and Israeli officials say there is a close relationship between Trump and Netanyahu. However, in recent weeks, Trump's requests for Israel to limit its military activities in Lebanon have occasionally caused tensions in the relationship.
Last week, Trump admitted to angrily calling Netanyahu "crazy" during a phone call but also said the two leaders get along well. Trump also repeatedly asked the Israeli President to pardon Netanyahu over corruption charges that Netanyahu denies.
Netanyahu's decision to run again signals a closely watched new election process both in Israeli domestic politics and along the Washington-Tel Aviv axis.
