Israelis prefer Netanyahu over other PM candidates, but don't trust his intentions - N12 poll

The public prefers Benjamin Netanyahu over other candidates as prime minister but doesn’t trust his intentions, according to a Channel 12 survey.

The survey, published on the N12 show Ulpan Shishi, revealed that in head-to-head comparisons, Netanyahu outperforms his main rivals for the premiership.

Netanyahu was the most favored candidate for prime minister among the main contenders, receiving 36% support compared to Yair Lapid (28%), 32% compared to Benny Gantz (28%), and 33% compared to Naftali Bennett (32%).

The survey also showed that 62% of respondents favored a hostage deal over a “total victory” (29%) in the Israel-Hamas War.

Additionally, 51% of survey respondents stated that they believed Netanyahu’s own political considerations had prevented a hostage deal, while 40% believed it was due to regular operational considerations.

Netanyahu Goes to Washington

Respondents were split on their feelings towards Netanyahu’s US Congress speech, with 38% saying they felt pride, 27% disappointment, and 18% mixed feelings.

Despite this division, 65% said their opinion on Netanyahu remained unchanged while 15% said their opinion had changed.

The public was also divided on Netanyahu’s intentions, with 48% saying the trip promoted Netanyahu’s political interests and 44% saying it promoted the interests of the State of Israel.

Some 46% of Israelis want him to cut the trip short, while 36% think there is no reason to do so.