Is Netanyahu hoping for a deadlock in the upcoming elections? – opinion

Israel's upcoming elections are characterized by a political stalemate, reminiscent of 1959 but with different underlying causes. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's focus on an all-right/religious coalition for his political survival, coupled with the opposition's "just not Bibi" stance, contributes to this rigidity. Several unknowns could significantly impact the results, including the final configuration of right/center groups, the number of Arab lists, and the potential independent run of a new Haredi party. Polls suggest opposition parties may gain 6-10 more seats than the current coalition, with Likud potentially losing a third of its 2022 seats. Despite this, a majority of Likud voters remain loyal, seemingly unfazed by recent events like judicial reform attempts, the October 7th massacre, and ongoing war. It is rumored that Netanyahu, aware Likud may not form the next government, is hoping for a deadlock to trigger another round of elections, a scenario that previously allowed him to remain in power.