Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is steering his election campaign towards an anti-Trkiye stance following pressures from the United States to halt attacks on Iran and Lebanon. With his Likud party losing ground in public opinion polls and his name being entangled in corruption allegations, Netanyahu is keen to maintain his grip on power.
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu, who has been Israeli prime minister during significant regional military conflicts, has been criticized for his aggressive policies. He has been accused of instigating violence in the Gaza Strip, with responsibilities linked to the deaths of many Palestinians. The International Criminal Court has even issued an arrest warrant for him over alleged war crimes in Gaza.
Netanyahu's administration has been marked by military actions beyond Gaza, including multiple attacks on Lebanon and wars against Iran. His government has also initiated military operations in Yemen, Qatar, and Syria, particularly after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. However, the Israeli prime minister was compelled to cease these aggressive actions under U.S. pressure, leading to criticism from political allies and opposition figures alike.
Polls indicate a decline in support for Netanyahu's Likud party, which is projected to drop from 32 to 23 seats in the upcoming elections. This shift has prompted Netanyahu and his team to focus on anti-Trkiye rhetoric as a campaign strategy. The approach comes in the wake of the Israeli attack on a Syrian air base and escalating tensions in the region.
Netanyahu's political allies have amplified this rhetoric, with notable figures like Defense Minister Yisrael Katz and lawmaker Eli Cohen making statements against Trkiye. The campaign has been further fueled by Israeli media, which has targeted Trkiye's Consulate General in Jerusalem and broadcast content critical of Turkish influence in the region.
As the elections approach, Netanyahu's strategy appears to be an attempt to rally support by stirring nationalistic sentiments and diverting public attention from domestic political challenges. However, this approach has also drawn criticism from opposition leaders who argue it risks further regional instability.