Israel's election rivals present divergent strategies for Iran conflict

Israel's upcoming coalition could be led by either Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, according to exit polls that show a close contest between the two camps. The two leaders also propose markedly different approaches to the ongoing tension with Iran.

Eisenkot, a decorated general who lost a son in the Gaza fighting of December 2023, says a contemporary Israel should see Jews and Arab settlers co-exist and argues that economic pressure offers the best chance of giving the Islamic Republic a sense of defeat. He supports limited military strikes on Tehran’s nuclear facilities but rejects a return to full-scale war. He has expressed support for President Donald Trump’s “peace through strength” policy, noting that economic measures are more likely to achieve a strategic advantage than a renewed campaign.

Netanyahu, in contrast, maintains that regime change in Iran is essential for lasting security and has promoted the idea of joint U.S.–Israel strikes, a proposal that President Trump did not approve, according to an Israeli source. The prime minister’s office dismissed the report of the proposed joint attack as inaccurate.

"Netanyahu really wanted and tried to convince Trump for a joint attack in Iran before the elections, and Trump did not give a green light," the source told CNN.

The former IDF chief has criticized Netanyahu’s war strategy as poorly planned and called for diplomatic solutions, while emphasizing the need for Israel to act independently of Washington. Netanyahu, after the polling, highlighted recent military achievements and urged opponents to unite behind his leadership, rejecting any partnership with Arab parties.

Exit polls indicate that voters have shifted away from Netanyahu’s current coalition, giving opposition parties a solid majority in the next parliament, though it remains uncertain whether a cohesive coalition can be formed.