A recent survey from Hebrew University reveals that only one-third of Israelis support Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continuing in office after the upcoming Knesset elections on October 27. This significant polling data underscores a growing appetite for leadership change among the Israeli populace, indicating a pivotal moment in the political landscape.
Alternatives to Netanyahu Gain Popularity
From the survey, approximately two-thirds of respondents expressed a desire for a different candidate. Among those seeking alternatives, Gadi Eisenkot, the chairman of the Yashar party, emerged as the preferred choice for around half of those participants. The remaining preferences were split largely between former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett of the B’Yachad party and MK Avigdor Liberman of Yisrael Beytenu. This trend towards looking for new leadership indicates a substantial shift in public sentiment and points toward dissatisfaction with the current administration.
Declining Optimism About Israel’s Future
The data further reflects a growing sense of disillusionment regarding the nation’s prospects. Only 33% of those surveyed expressed optimism about Israel’s future, while 36% reported feeling pessimistic—a notable shift from previous years indicating an increase in uncertainty for the population. Less than 25% of participants believed their children would live in a better environment than they do currently. This declining perspective underlines an alarming trend, with less than half feeling that Israel is safer now compared to before the tragic events of October 7, 2023.
Concerns Over Safety and Stability
Almost one-third of respondents believe the national security situation has worsened since the onset of the conflict. Furthermore, about 20% expressed thoughts about potentially leaving Israel due to growing concerns about both security and social issues. The emotional climate reflects a crisis of confidence among Israelis, profoundly impacting public opinions on governance and stability.
Bipartisan Concerns and Societal Divisions
In discussing the government’s role in the recent turmoil, less than 20% of surveyed individuals believe that Netanyahu’s administration achieved “total victory” in the war against Hamas. Nearly half of the respondents placed the greatest blame for security failures on the government, while about a third pointed fingers at the security establishment. Opinions regarding societal unity have become polarized, with over 50% of Jews and Arabs alike feeling that the conflict has amplified societal divisions, a stark claim against the notion that it has fostered national resilience.
This survey, conducted by Dr. Nimrod Nir and Dr. Gayil Talshir of Hebrew University on October 5-6, 2026, involved 2,437 respondents and provides critical insight into the evolving political and social landscape in Israel. The findings capture a moment of reflection and potential change as Israelis contemplate the future both politically and socially.