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Iranophobia: Netanyahu’s bid to transform fear into political survival
Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing Israel for another war with Iran as his government’s hold on power weakens and opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot tries to form a new government. Analysts quoted in the article say Netanyahu may see a crisis as a way to secure a national unity government and prolong his political survival; opponents accuse him of risking a wider conflict for that purpose.
The article argues that longstanding fear of Iran could make the political consequences unpredictable: even critics might rally behind Netanyahu if Israel attacks. Israeli leaders have warned for decades that Iran could acquire nuclear weapons, while the June 2025 exchange of strikes lasted 12 days. A later joint US-Israeli attack in February disrupted key waterways and unsettled financial markets and household spending, according to the article.
In short
- Netanyahu is reportedly preparing Israel for possible renewed strikes on Iran.
- Analysts say a crisis could help him remain in power.
- Longstanding fears of Iran may draw opposition and public support behind an attack.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters could argue that Iran’s nuclear ambitions and past attacks pose a serious, enduring security threat, and that preparing for further conflict is a duty of government rather than a political manoeuvre. A unity government during a crisis could help Israel act cohesively and reassure the public, even if it also benefits Netanyahu politically.
The case against
Critics could argue that launching or escalating a war while Netanyahu’s government is weakening risks using a genuine security fear to preserve his hold on power. The recent strikes’ disruption to waterways, markets and household spending, alongside the danger of wider conflict, makes the costs to Israelis and the region substantial.
Explained simply
Israel and Iran have been rivals for decades, and Israeli leaders have repeatedly warned that Iran could develop nuclear weapons. The two countries have exchanged attacks, including a 12-day conflict in June 2025, while the United States has also joined military action against Iran.
Benjamin Netanyahu is Israel’s long-serving prime minister, and Gadi Eisenkot is an opposition leader seeking to replace his government. In Israel, a national unity government brings rival political groups together, often during a crisis; analysts say such a prospect could affect Netanyahu’s political position.
Any further conflict could spread beyond the two countries and affect shipping, markets and household costs. The balance between security concerns and domestic political pressures is therefore central to understanding the debate.