Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed his intention to contest in the upcoming November 2026 elections, expressing confidence that he will secure another term in office.
During an appearance on the right-wing Channel 14 programme, Netanyahu was directly asked if he planned to run again. His response was a firm “Yes.” When pressed further on whether he anticipated victory, the seasoned leader confidently replied, “Yes.”
Netanyahu, the head of the Likud party—Israel’s dominant right-wing faction—holds the distinction of being the country’s longest-serving prime minister. His leadership spans over 18 years in total, with intermittent breaks, beginning from his first tenure in 1996.
In the most recent elections, Likud secured 32 seats in the Knesset, while its ultra-Orthodox allies captured 18 seats and the Religious Zionism alliance claimed 14 — marking a historic performance for Israel’s far-right bloc.
Netanyahu’s current administration began amid controversy following his proposed judicial overhaul, a move that sparked widespread public outrage and months of demonstrations. Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets almost daily, decrying what they viewed as an attempt to weaken the judiciary’s independence.
The veteran leader has also come under increasing criticism since the outbreak of the war ignited by Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel from Gaza on October 7, 2023. Families of hostages have repeatedly voiced frustration with his government’s handling of the conflict, accusing Netanyahu of prioritizing political survival over national unity and resolution.
Despite growing domestic dissent and political turbulence, Netanyahu’s remarks signal his determination to maintain his position at the helm of Israeli politics—a role he has shaped and dominated for nearly two decades.
What You Should Know
Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, has confirmed his candidacy for the 2026 elections.
Despite facing widespread protests over judicial reforms and criticism regarding his handling of the Gaza war, Netanyahu remains confident in his political strength and expects to win another term.
