Israel’s parliamentary elections have placed the Middle East at a dangerous crossroads. As votes are counted, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political alliance is struggling to secure the parliamentary majority needed to retain power, while opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot is challenging his leadership. Preliminary results suggest that neither camp has secured the 61 seats required to govern. Yet the consequences extend far beyond Israel’s political boundaries.

The question confronting the world is not simply whether Netanyahu will return to office, but whether the Middle East will witness another period of military confrontation, humanitarian suffering and escalating hostility towards Iran, or finally move towards diplomacy, accountability and lasting peace. For Netanyahu, the election represents much more than another political contest. It is a test of his controversial leadership following years of conflict, growing international criticism and deep divisions within Israeli society. His supporters consider him an experienced leader capable of confronting serious security threats. His critics associate his leadership with prolonged warfare, political polarisation and diminishing prospects for peace.

The possibility of Netanyahu returning to power raises serious questions about the direction of Israeli foreign policy.

The possibility of Netanyahu returning to power raises serious questions about the direction of Israeli foreign policy.

The possibility of Netanyahu returning to power raises serious questions about the direction of Israeli foreign policy. His previous governments have repeatedly relied on military pressure to address regional threats. Although Israel has legitimate security concerns, excessive dependence on force risks creating new conflicts rather than resolving existing ones.

The devastating war in Gaza remains the strongest argument against treating military superiority as a substitute for political wisdom. The destruction of civilian infrastructure, displacement of families and suffering of children have deeply damaged Israel’s international reputation. Military achievements cannot compensate for the humanitarian consequences of policies that leave ordinary people struggling to survive.

International legal concerns have further complicated Netanyahu’s political........

© Daily Times