Jerusalem, 19 October (H.S.): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Saturday his intention to run for another term in the 2026 general elections, signaling a potential move to bring the polls forward to June of that year.During an appearance on the right-wing Channel 14, when asked if he planned to seek re-election, Netanyahu gave a definitive Yes, and expressed confidence that he would win.

The elections were originally scheduled for November 2026.The announcement comes at a time when Netanyahu's political career continues to navigate significant challenges. Since the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, he has faced sustained criticism over his government's handling of the ensuing war and accusations of prolonging the conflict to satisfy his far-right coalition partners.

Earlier this year, his government also survived an opposition-led attempt to dissolve the Knesset over a contentious bill concerning mandatory military service.Despite the controversies, recent polling suggests Netanyahu's Likud party remains in a strong position, projected to win 34 seats in the Knesset, well ahead of the 20 seats projected for a new party led by former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.

Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, is positioning himself for what would be his sixth term in office .

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar