Iran war may help Netanyahu at home but hurt Israel abroad

Iran War May Help Netanyahu Domestically, Yet Strain Israel’s Global Standing

The U.S. public’s mixed reaction to Israel’s military campaign against Iran has sparked debate, with nearly 60% disapproving the decision to engage in the conflict. This contrast highlights a growing divide between domestic and international perceptions of the prime minister’s strategic moves. Meanwhile, in Britain, the Telegraph hailed Netanyahu as “the great war leader of our age,” a sentiment echoed by conservative commentator Charles Moore, who likened him to Winston Churchill in his relentless focus on Iran.

Moore’s article, published in the wake of the strikes, positioned Netanyahu as a modern-day Churchill, emphasizing his decades-long campaign against Iran and his alliance with former U.S. President Donald Trump. The comparison resonated with Netanyahu’s core supporters, who quickly shared the piece on social media. For the Israeli leader, this narrative reinforces his image as a steadfast defender of the nation’s security, a role he has long claimed.

“Netanyahu is the great war leader of our age,” declared a headline in Britain’s Telegraph newspaper on Monday.

Despite the domestic enthusiasm, the operation has drawn criticism abroad, particularly in the United States. Political observers note that the campaign’s popularity in Israel may inadvertently deepen partisan divisions over the country’s actions. While 81% of Israelis back the strikes, only 63% believe the campaign should persist until Iran’s regime is toppled, according to a recent survey by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS).

Netanyahu’s strategy also includes leveraging allies. Opposition leaders like former Prime Ministers Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennett have aligned with his messaging, adjusting their rhetoric to reflect the public’s current mood. Lapid’s recent column in The Economist stated, “On this military campaign, I stand behind the government and the operation in Iran.” This support underscores the prime minister’s ability to unify political factions under the banner of regional security.

Rebuilding Legacy After October 7

The October 7, 2023, attacks, which marked Israel’s worst security crisis, initially tarnished Netanyahu’s reputation as “Mr. Security.” However, the subsequent military campaigns against Iran and its allies have allowed him to reframe the event as a pivotal moment in a larger geopolitical transformation. These actions, including the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have reinvigorated his domestic standing.

Netanyahu has consistently framed Iran as Israel’s principal threat, shaping both domestic discourse and foreign policy around this narrative. His supporters view the current strikes as a continuation of this vision, with the Prime Minister’s Office labeling the operation “Operation Roaring Lion.” This branding signals his intent to capitalize on wartime momentum during upcoming elections, potentially held earlier than the scheduled late October date.

Behind the scenes, Netanyahu’s allies insist the campaign is central to his re-election strategy. The U.S. remains a key ally, with Trump positioned as the figurehead of this alliance. Netanyahu has publicly praised Trump’s role in the operation, even announcing plans to award him the Israel Prize on Independence Day. Yet, the U.S. partisan divide over the conflict raises questions about its long-term support for Israel’s actions.

Newsom’s Growing Criticism

California Governor Gavin Newsom has intensified his critique of Israel’s approach, accusing Netanyahu of pushing the U.S. into the Iran war. This criticism adds pressure to an already strained relationship, as the Gaza conflict’s international fallout continues to affect Israel’s global image. While domestic support for the Iran strikes remains strong, the U.S. public’s disapproval may complicate Israel’s diplomatic standing in the coming months.