Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing declining support in northern Israel as voters increasingly criticize his handling of the conflict with Hezbollah and demand a tougher military response.
A new poll conducted by Agam Labs at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that support for Netanyahu’s Likud party has fallen sharply in northern communities most affected by Hezbollah rocket and drone attacks, creating new political challenges ahead of Israel’s next general election.
The findings come as Israel and Lebanon attempt to implement a new ceasefire agreement, though many residents near the border remain skeptical that the truce will provide lasting security.
Poll Shows Sharp Decline in Likud Support
According to the survey, only 23 percent of northern voters currently support Likud, compared with 35 percent during the 2022 election.
The decline is significantly larger than the drop in support recorded in other parts of Israel and reflects growing dissatisfaction among voters who have experienced the brunt of cross border attacks.
The poll also found that support for Netanyahu’s broader right wing coalition has weakened considerably in the region.
Researchers described the results as a dramatic political shift, suggesting many northern voters are moving toward opposition parties.
Northern Residents Want Stronger Action Against Hezbollah
For many residents of northern Israel, security remains the dominant political issue.
Communities such as Kiryat Shmona have been repeatedly targeted by Hezbollah rocket and drone attacks since the conflict escalated following the October 2023 Hamas attack on southern Israel.
Residents told reporters they want the Israeli military to continue operations against Hezbollah until the group is fully dismantled and no longer poses a threat to border communities.
Many expressed doubts that ceasefire agreements can guarantee long term security.
The continuing threat of rocket attacks has shaped political attitudes across the region, where residents often have only seconds to seek shelter when warning sirens sound.
Ceasefire Faces Skepticism in Border Communities
The latest ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon was announced this week as part of broader diplomatic efforts supported by the United States.
Under the arrangement, Hezbollah is expected to withdraw from parts of southern Lebanon and halt attacks against Israel.
However, many northern Israeli voters remain unconvinced that the agreement will prevent future violence.
Some residents believe political leaders are yielding to international pressure rather than pursuing a decisive military victory against Hezbollah.
This skepticism has become a significant factor in the region’s political landscape.
Netanyahu Caught Between Security Concerns and Diplomacy
The poll highlights a growing challenge for Netanyahu as he balances domestic political demands with international diplomatic efforts.
The Israeli government faces pressure from the United States to support regional de escalation and broader negotiations involving Iran.
At the same time, many voters in northern Israel want stronger military action and oppose agreements they perceive as limiting Israel’s ability to respond to security threats.
This tension places Netanyahu in a difficult position as elections approach.
Opposition Leaders Target Northern Voters
Netanyahu’s political rivals have moved quickly to capitalize on dissatisfaction in northern communities.
Former military chief and opposition leader Gadi Eizenkot has repeatedly visited affected areas and argued that Israeli military operations should continue wherever Hezbollah remains active.
Opposition figures have accused the government of compromising security and failing to provide sufficient protection for border residents.
Their outreach efforts appear designed to attract traditionally conservative voters who feel neglected by the current government.
Northern Communities Continue to Feel the Impact of War
The prolonged conflict has had a profound effect on daily life in northern Israel.
Many towns near the Lebanese border have experienced population declines as residents relocate to safer areas.
Businesses have struggled, tourism has suffered and local economies have been disrupted by repeated security incidents.
Residents describe once thriving communities as increasingly deserted, with many public spaces and commercial areas largely empty.
These economic and social challenges have contributed to frustration with national leaders.
Casualties and Regional Tensions Persist
Since October 2023, Hezbollah attacks have killed dozens of civilians in northern Israel, according to Israeli security assessments.
Meanwhile, Lebanese officials report that thousands of people have been killed during Israeli military operations in Lebanon, though official figures do not distinguish between civilians and combatants.
The ongoing violence has deepened tensions on both sides of the border and complicated efforts to achieve a durable peace agreement.
Background
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensified after Hamas launched its attack on Israel in October 2023.
Hezbollah began firing rockets into northern Israel in support of Hamas, leading to a prolonged military confrontation between Israel and the Iran backed group.
Israel conducted extensive military operations in Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah leadership, infrastructure and military positions.
Although ceasefire agreements have been reached at various points, hostilities have repeatedly resumed, preventing a lasting resolution.
The security situation remains one of the most important issues facing Israeli voters ahead of the next national election, which must be held by October.
Analysis: Security Concerns Reshape Israel’s Political Map
The new poll suggests that Netanyahu’s greatest political vulnerability may now lie in regions that have traditionally supported him.
Northern voters are not necessarily moving away from the political right. Instead, many appear to believe that the government has not gone far enough in confronting Hezbollah.
This distinction is important because it means Netanyahu faces pressure not from political moderates but from voters demanding an even tougher security policy.
The challenge is compounded by international diplomacy. While Washington seeks regional stability and supports ceasefire arrangements, many northern Israelis view continued military pressure as essential to their security.
The loss of support in northern Israel could have significant electoral consequences because the region represents a substantial portion of the electorate. If opposition candidates successfully position themselves as stronger on security issues, Netanyahu could face difficulties maintaining his coalition’s majority.
At the same time, the prime minister remains one of Israel’s most experienced political figures and has repeatedly survived periods of declining popularity. Much will depend on whether voters perceive the latest ceasefire as improving security or merely postponing future conflict.
Conclusion
A new poll indicates that Benjamin Netanyahu’s support is eroding in northern Israel, where voters remain deeply concerned about Hezbollah attacks and skeptical of ceasefire agreements. As elections approach, the prime minister faces growing pressure to balance international diplomatic efforts with domestic demands for a tougher military strategy. The outcome could play a decisive role in shaping Israel’s political future and its approach to security along the Lebanese border.
With information from Reuters.
