Israeli opposition leaders said Wednesday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could no longer remain in power following Democratic gains in the United States midterm elections. They warned that his continued rule could undermine Israel’s international standing and strain relations with its closest ally, the United States.
Yair Golan, leader of the opposition Democrats party, said the election results had exposed how unpopular Netanyahu had become among both Democrats and Republicans in the US.
In a post on X, Golan warned that Netanyahu’s continued leadership, alongside National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, could push Israel towards international sanctions, diplomatic isolation and a confrontation with Washington.
Golan Warns of Isolation
Golan said Israel needed a government capable of restoring its international standing, pursuing long-term political and strategic arrangements, and ensuring national security.
He described the choice facing Israel as one between Netanyahu’s vision of “Super Sparta,” which he characterised as boycotted, backward and isolated, and a strong, advanced, free and secure country.
“Netanyahu lost the elections. He is dangerous to Israel. We have no time to waste. We must form a government of change now,” Golan said.
Kariv Also Calls for Netanyahu’s Departure
Israeli lawmaker Gilad Kariv also called on Netanyahu to leave office, accusing him of damaging Israel’s relations with the Democratic Party and a significant section of the Republican Party.
“He must not continue to lead the State of Israel,” Kariv said, rejecting proposals for a unity government under Netanyahu’s leadership.
Eisenkot Says Netanyahu’s Bid to Challenge Israeli Election Results Has Failed
The opposition statements came after Democrats secured control of both chambers of the US Congress in the midterm elections, dealing a major setback to President Donald Trump and his Republican Party.
Trump has been a strong supporter of Netanyahu, whose political future has remained a subject of debate amid efforts to shape Israel’s next government.
Political Balance in the Knesset
According to the figures cited in the report, Netanyahu’s bloc holds 53 seats in the 120-member Knesset, compared with 48 seats held by Jewish opposition parties and 19 by Arab parties.
The opposition leaders’ remarks reflect growing political pressure on Netanyahu, with concerns that tensions with Washington and Israel’s international standing could become major issues in the country’s political debate.
