Israel elections: Netanyahu needs a war to win – opinion

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a challenging election if it becomes a referendum on his responsibility for the October 7 security failure, the hostage crisis, economic costs, and Israel's international isolation. However, the author suggests that if Israel enters another war, Netanyahu could present himself as "Mr. Security," shifting focus from past failures to future threats. The article argues that Netanyahu's political advantage relies on fear, and a new conflict—potentially in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, or Iran—would allow him to campaign on his ability to protect the nation.

• The author contends that while Israel has demonstrated military capabilities, it has failed to translate tactical successes into strategic political gains, such as establishing legitimate Palestinian governance in Gaza or advancing diplomatic solutions.
• A strategic leader, the article posits, would leverage military achievements for diplomatic and political gains, connecting Saudi normalization to Palestinian statehood and building regional security structures.
• The author raises concerns that war serves Netanyahu politically by postponing difficult decisions about Gaza's future, Palestinian rule, and settlements.
• The article emphasizes the extraordinary responsibility of the IDF chief of staff to provide professional judgment on the necessity of a proposed war, even suggesting resignation if a war is deemed politically motivated and unnecessary for Israel's defense.