Empathy for Netanyahu, while demanding his resignation

Benjamin Netanyahu, as the son of a historian, has long envisioned himself not merely as a leader of Israel, but as a figure destined to shape its destiny. Over years marked by both triumph and tragedy, he has navigated the complexities of Israeli politics with the acumen of a seasoned strategist. Yet today, as calls for his resignation grow louder, Netanyahu confronts a stark reality: he risks being remembered not as Israel’s savior, but as its most controversial leader.
Netanyahu’s journey is one punctuated by successes like navigating economic challenges, countering geopolitical threats, and forging the historic Abraham Accords. These achievements could have secured his legacy among Israel’s greatest leaders since Ben-Gurion had he chosen to step down after early successes. Instead, driven by personal mission and, perhaps, an addiction to power, he opted to remain in office.
However, the tragedy extends beyond Netanyahu’s personal decisions to their profound impact on Israel itself. During his prolonged tenure, governance has suffered as institutions once celebrated for integrity have succumbed to political allegiance and personal ties. Israeli society, once cohesive, has grown divided under Netanyahu’s leadership, exacerbated by strategies that prioritized political survival over national unity.
His legacy, tarnished by legal controversies and a relentless pursuit of power at any cost, including attempts to undermine democratic checks and balances, has eroded public trust both at home and abroad. Once a unifying figure, Netanyahu now stands as a divisive force, threatening Israel’s stability and global standing.
Netanyahu believed his own greatness and capabilities could compensate for the weaknesses within his inner circle. On October 7th, that illusion shattered with devastating consequences. Since then, he has pursued a relentless political campaign, prioritizing his survival over national unity, even during times of war.
According to every poll, Netanyahu has lost the faith and confidence of the Israeli public. Like recent leaders in the UK and France who faced similar situations in their parliamentary systems, he should recognize this loss of support and return the mandate to the public. This mirrors Netanyahu’s own demands of then-prime minister Ehud Olmert 15 years ago.
Like leaders from George Washington to Ben-Gurion, Netanyahu faces a crucial juncture where leadership must transition to ensure democratic vitality. Acknowledging Netanyahu’s past achievements must coincide with demanding his exit from Israeli politics—a necessary step for Israel’s renewal and reconnection with its founding principles.
Ben-Gurion, who understood the importance of leadership transitions, emphasized that leaders, regardless of past glories, must yield to new voices and visions for the nation’s sake. Netanyahu’s resignation would not diminish his past contributions but would clear a path for fresh leadership capable of confronting present challenges with clarity and unity.
Calls for Netanyahu’s resignation stem not from disdain but from a deep-seated concern for Israel’s future. A majority of Israelis seek new leadership to navigate current crises and forge a path rooted in integrity and unity. Netanyahu’s departure presents an opportunity—a chance to reaffirm Israel’s democratic commitment and restore faith in its institutions.
At the same time, empathy for Netanyahu’s personal struggles should not overshadow the imperative for change. Once viewed as a promising leader, his legacy now risks being overshadowed by controversy and division. Israeli citizens have repeatedly signaled their desire for new leadership through elections and protests.
Moving forward requires a collective commitment to democratic renewal—an affirmation of Israel’s commitment to governance transparency and national unity. Amidst complex geopolitical realities and domestic challenges, calls for Netanyahu’s resignation reflect both political necessity and moral imperative—a call to prioritize Israel’s future above any individual’s legacy.
For stepping aside in grace, not desperately hanging on in disarray, is surely how Netanyahu would prefer history remember him.