Iran war may help Netanyahu at home but hurt Israel abroad

Iran War May Help Netanyahu at Home But Hurt Israel Abroad

As the conflict with Iran intensifies, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finds himself in a unique position, bolstering domestic support while facing international scrutiny. A recent surge in military action has reignited enthusiasm among his supporters, who see it as a chance to redefine his political legacy. The Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) reported that 81% of Israelis back the strikes, with 63% advocating for the campaign to continue until the Iranian government is toppled.

Meanwhile, the international perception of Israel is shifting. The Telegraph, a British publication, recently praised Netanyahu as the modern-day equivalent of Winston Churchill, highlighting his long-standing focus on Iran and collaboration with former President Donald Trump. This comparison has been widely shared on social media by his backers, reinforcing his image as a decisive leader. However, the same efforts have drawn criticism abroad, particularly in the United States, where public opinion remains divided.

“Netanyahu is the great war leader of our age,” declared a headline in the Telegraph on Monday. The article, penned by Charles Moore, framed the prime minister as a Churchillian figure whose strategic moves against Iran, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Tehran have transformed the Middle East.

Netanyahu’s supporters have seized on the recent successes in the Iran war to rally voters ahead of the upcoming election. The operation, which began with the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been dubbed “Operation Roaring Lion” by the Prime Minister’s Office. Political analysts suggest this branding is a calculated move to leverage wartime momentum and push for an earlier vote, potentially altering the election timeline.

Opposition leaders, including former Prime Ministers Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennett, have aligned with Netanyahu’s narrative, adapting their messaging to match the public’s growing approval. Lapid, in a column for The Economist, affirmed his backing for the campaign, stating, “On this military campaign, I stand behind the government and the operation in Iran.” This unity reflects Netanyahu’s broader strategy to frame the conflict as a pivotal chapter in Israel’s history.

The October 7, 2023, attacks marked a significant blow to Netanyahu’s reputation as “Mr. Security.” Since then, he has positioned military campaigns as a means to restore Israel’s standing. His recent actions have targeted key figures in what he calls the “Axis of Evil,” from Hamas and Hezbollah leaders to Khamenei. These victories are expected to be central to his reelection efforts.

Despite the domestic momentum, the joint US-Israeli operation faces challenges overseas. A CNN poll revealed that nearly 60% of Americans disapprove of the US involvement in Iran. Democratic voters show only 18% approval, contrasting sharply with 77% support from Republicans. This partisan divide could intensify as the conflict continues, impacting Israel’s global image.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has voiced concerns over the operation’s trajectory, with some critics arguing it risks deepening divisions. While Netanyahu seeks to strengthen his position through military achievements, the outcome of the Iran war may also shape how the US views Israel’s leadership in the region.