Israeli Opposition Demands Netanyahu Resign After U.S. Election Rout

Israeli opposition leaders are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following a dual political crisis in Israel and the United States. Netanyahu's right-wing coalition failed to secure a majority in the October 27 elections, finishing with 53 of the 61 seats required to form a government. In response, Netanyahu has questioned the legitimacy of the vote and called on the Shin Bet to investigate leaders of Arab parties for foreign interference.

Simultaneously, President Donald Trump and the Republican Party suffered a landslide defeat in the U.S. midterm elections, losing control of both the House and the Senate to Democrats. Trump acknowledged that the joint U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran, launched in February under Netanyahu's pressure, contributed to the Republican defeat by impacting energy prices and public perception. To mitigate domestic anger, Trump announced a deal with Netanyahu to end the annual $4 billion in funding to Israel after 2026.

Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid and alliance leader Yair Golan argue that Netanyahu has become toxic in the U.S., endangering national security and the bilateral relationship. They have ruled out forming a unity government, citing the risk of international isolation and potential sanctions from progressive U.S. lawmakers, such as Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed, who advocate for ending military aid.