Jerusalem: Israels upcoming October election is poised to be a critical juncture not only for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but also for his Likud party, which has undergone a significant ideological transformation. Once a mainstream entity in Zionist politics, Likud is increasingly seen as part of Israels far-right faction by political analysts.
According to TRTworld.com, the Likud party's shift has been gradual since its rise under Menachem Begin, impacting Israeli politics predominantly through Likud-led coalitions since the 1990s. Currently, under Netanyahu, the party has aligned with far-right groups such as Itamar Ben-Gvir's Jewish Power and Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionism, adopting controversial stances like the annexation of occupied Palestinian territories.
Experts highlight that under Netanyahu, Likud has diverged from its secular roots, prompting concerns about the party's and Israel's political future. Dahlia Scheindlin from Haaretz notes that the distinction between Likud and far-right parties has blurred, with Netanyahu supporting extremist policies through his coalition partners.
The Likud party's political fate is uncertain. Opinion polls suggest it trails behind the centrist Yashar party, indicating a challenging election ahead. Yet, Likud and its allies remain relevant, as political dynamics can shift with regional events.
The transformation of Likud is attributed to various factors, including Netanyahu's leadership style, populism, and legal troubles, according to Nimrod Goren of the Mitvim Institute. These elements have not only altered Likud's political stance but also led to internal dissension, with senior members leaving in protest of government policies.
Experts like Arik Rudnitzky from the Moshe Dayan Center believe Likud's alliance with far-right and ultra-Orthodox parties is strategic, aimed at securing governance capabilities. However, some opposition leaders remain open to a national unity government with Likud, suggesting it is not universally viewed as a far-right entity.
Historically, Likud's flirtation with extremism predates Netanyahu, as noted by Dan Steinbock, who points to the party's ties to hardline Zionist ideologies dating back to its founding. Netanyahu's recent coalition with far-right factions is seen as a continuation of this legacy, marked by significant geopolitical consequences.
The upcoming election will be pivotal, with potential implications for Israel's civic institutions and regional relations. If Netanyahu secures another term with far-right partners, experts warn of continued democratic erosion and escalating ultranationalist violence.
While the Israeli electorate appears to favor a shift away from extremism, the outcome could redefine Likud's role in Israeli politics. A further tilt towards the far-right might diminish its influence, paving the way for new political forces advocating peace and stability, as suggested by Rudnitzky.