TEL AVIV — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that he will seek another term in office, reaffirming his political ambitions despite growing domestic criticism and ongoing conflict in Gaza.
In an interview aired on Channel 14, a right-wing Israeli broadcaster, Netanyahu was asked directly whether he planned to run in the next elections scheduled for November next year. He responded simply, “Yes.” When asked if he expected to win, he repeated, “Yes.”
The declaration ends months of speculation over the future of the 75-year-old leader, who has dominated Israeli politics for more than three decades. Netanyahu, who first became prime minister in 1996 and has held the post for over 18 years in total, leads the right-wing Likud Party, which remains a central force in Israel’s political landscape.
His announcement comes at a turbulent time. Netanyahu’s government faces mounting challenges, including public unrest over the war in Gaza, criticism of his leadership during the crisis, and lingering anger over his controversial judicial overhaul plans that sparked mass protests earlier this year.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed his intention to run for office again in 2026, despite facing significant political challenges and criticism over his handling of the Gaza conflict. His announcement ends speculation about his political future and underscores his enduring influence in Israeli politics, as he continues to lead the right-wing Likud Party.