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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition experienced another decline this week, according to a Maariv poll published Friday, amid the recent Houthi drone strike in Eilat that injured dozens and growing concerns over Israel’s international isolation.
The survey indicated that opposition parties now hold a majority of 62 seats, compared to 48 seats for Netanyahu’s coalition, while Arab parties gained an additional 10 seats. The poll reflects shifting public sentiment amid Israel’s ongoing operations in Gaza City.
The Reservists’ Party, led by Yoaz Hendel, continued its downward trend, securing only four seats in this week’s survey. Meanwhile, Benny Gantz’s Blue and White party fell below the electoral threshold, receiving just 2.9% support.
Despite overall coalition losses, Likud strengthened slightly, gaining one seat. Opposition parties also saw modest gains: Yair Golan’s Democrats increased by one seat, remaining the second-largest opposition party after Naftali Bennett’s party. Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid similarly gained one seat, while Avigdor Liberman’s Yisrael Beytenu lost a seat.
Public concern is heightened over the international recognition of a Palestinian state, with 63% of respondents expressing worry. This concern spans the political spectrum, affecting 59% of coalition voters and 69% of opposition supporters alike.
Additionally, most Israelis expressed anxiety over the possibility of being excluded from international cultural and sports events. While 62% of coalition voters were unconcerned, a significant 82% of opposition voters feared such exclusion.
Regarding the conflict in Gaza, the poll revealed a divided public stance. Overall, 53% of Israelis favor halting military operations to focus on returning hostages, a view strongly supported by nearly 75% of opposition voters. Conversely, 37% of respondents, primarily coalition supporters, believe Israel should continue fighting until Hamas is defeated.
The survey also highlighted public attitudes toward US President Donald Trump’s proposed plan to end the Gaza conflict. Support for the plan stood at 53%, with opposition voters showing 72% backing, compared to 41% among coalition supporters.
The Maariv survey was conducted on Thursday, September 25, among 502 adults, including both Jewish and Arab citizens. The maximum sampling error is ±4.4%. Lazar Research, led by Dr. Menachem Lazar, carried out the poll in cooperation with the online respondent panel Panel4All.
As Israel navigates heightened domestic and international pressures, the political landscape remains volatile, with Netanyahu’s coalition facing mounting challenges from a resurgent opposition and widespread public concern over the ongoing conflict and Israel’s global standing.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members