Netanyahu Faces Growing Voter Backlash in Northern Israel Ahead of 2026 Election

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing declining political support in northern Israel, a region heavily affected by Hezbollah rocket and drone attacks, according to a recent poll conducted by Agam Labs at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The findings highlight increasing pressure on Netanyahu as the 2026 Israeli election approaches and security concerns remain a dominant issue for voters.

The survey revealed that support for Netanyahu’s Likud party has fallen significantly in northern communities compared to other parts of Israel. Only 23% of northern voters said they would support Likud in the next election, a sharp drop from the 35% the party secured in the 2022 vote. Many residents expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Security remains the top concern for voters in cities such as Kiryat Shmona, which has endured frequent rocket sirens and attacks since October 2023. Residents say they want stronger military action against Hezbollah and remain skeptical that ceasefire agreements can provide lasting protection. The latest Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, announced on Wednesday, has done little to ease concerns among many northern voters who believe the threat has not been fully eliminated.

The political challenge for Netanyahu is complicated by international diplomacy. The United States, led by President Donald Trump, has been pushing for regional de-escalation and broader negotiations involving Iran. Some Israeli voters believe Netanyahu has been too willing to accommodate American pressure, while opposition leaders argue that Israel should maintain a tougher stance against Hezbollah.

Political rivals, including former military chief Gadi Eizenkot, have intensified their campaigns in northern Israel by emphasizing national security and promising stronger action against militant threats. The region, which represents a significant portion of Israel’s electorate, could play a decisive role in determining the outcome of the upcoming election.

As tensions continue along Israel’s northern border, voter frustration over security, displacement, and economic disruption is reshaping the political landscape. With elections expected by October 2026, Netanyahu faces mounting challenges in retaining support from a region that was once considered a stronghold for his party.