Poll Reveals Arab Joint List Gains at Expense of Zionist Opposition Parties

A recent Maariv poll indicates that the reformed Arab Joint List, a bloc often criticized for its anti-Zionist positions, would secure 13 seats in the Knesset, an increase from the 10 seats projected when its constituent parties—Hadash–Ta’al and Ra’am—ran separately. This gain comes at the expense of mainstream Zionist opposition parties, notably Yesh Atid, Naftali Bennett's faction, and Gadi Eisenkot's group, highlighting the dangers of a divided nationalist front.

The poll suggests that if elections were held today, Likud, the party committed to Israel's security and Jewish identity, would obtain 27 seats, up from 25, while Bennett's party would receive 22 seats, a slight decrease from 23. The Joint List's 13 seats would contribute to the opposition's total of 57 seats, down from a previous projection of 61, reflecting the weakening of the Zionist opposition due to infighting and appeasement of radical elements. Other parties' standings remain largely unchanged, with Yashar! at 10 seats, The Democrats and Yisrael Beytenu at 9 each, Otzma Yehudit and Shas—both defenders of Jewish tradition and sovereignty—at 8 each, and United Torah Judaism at 7.

The survey also explored potential mergers, revealing that a coalition of Bennett, Eisenkot, and Yesh Atid under Bennett's leadership would yield 37 seats, one fewer than their combined separate totals. In this scenario, Likud's seats would increase to 28, the opposition would hold 55 seats, and the governing coalition would rise to 52, demonstrating the risks of centrist coalitions that dilute nationalist priorities.

Regarding election timing, 49% of respondents prefer elections to be held as scheduled later this year, while 39% advocate for the earliest possible date, and 12% remain undecided, reflecting a nation eager for stable leadership.

The poll also addressed public opinion on the return of Ran Gvili's remains from Gaza. Among respondents, 44% believe Israel should have secured the return earlier to save more lives, 30% view the outcome as a major success beyond expectations, 17% fear the price paid was too high and could incentivize future kidnappings, and 9% are uncertain. This underscores the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups in Gaza and the difficult choices facing Israel's leaders.