Israel Elections

In recent years, Cohen has been a sharp critic of Netanyahu and has spoken publicly about his experience working under him during his tenure as Shin Bet chief.

The poll marks a shift after four consecutive surveys in which the opposition bloc held 61 seats without relying on Arab parties. It now falls to 59 seats, while the coalition rises from 49 to 51.

The initiative, informally described as “Likud B,” is being advanced by right-wing figures, many of whom have had strained relations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The left-wing Democrats Party is composed of the Labor and Meretz parties, which merged in 2024. Dabush is expected to run for one of the reserved Meretz slots on the party’s list.

The Reservists Party is working toward a Zionist government, with talks underway for a potential alliance with Benny Gantz’s Blue and White ahead of the 2026 elections.

Responding to the poll, Opposition leader Yair Lapid said the results show that “reality is stronger than all attempts at brainwashing.”

The poll further found that 51% of Israelis do not trust US President Donald Trump to end the war with Iran in a way that would preserve Israel’s interests.

Despite shifts among individual party leaders, the overall balance between the blocs remains unchanged: 60 seats for the opposition and 50 for the coalition.

Yesh Atid MK Mickey Levy warns Naftali Bennett’s poll surge is fueled by Lapid voters, not “natural” rising support in his ideology, and cautions a stronger Bennett could ultimately align with Likud.

I cannot sit on the sidelines and hope things will turn out well,” Ronen said.