• Netanyahu sees popularity bounce back following attacks on Hezbollah – latest polls
• Poll revealed if general election were held now, Lukid party would secure most seats
• But poll also reveals it would still fall short of an outright majority

Netanyahu sees popularity bounce back following attacks on Hezbollah – latest polls 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval ratings have seen a rebound following attacks against Hezbollah. A recent poll conducted for Israel’s Channel 12 reveals that if a general election were held now, Netanyahu’s Likud party would secure the most seats, although it would still fall short of an outright majority.

In a further boost for Netanyahu, former rival Gideon Saar joined his coalition government on Sunday, potentially strengthening his position. “We will work together, shoulder to shoulder,” Netanyahu stated, emphasising Saar’s role in the ongoing conflict.

Saar will serve as a minister without portfolio and will sit on the Security Cabinet, which oversees military operations. His inclusion increases Netanyahu’s coalition majority to 68 seats in the 120-member Knesset.

Rumours had swirled in recent weeks that the position of defence minister currently held by the popular, seasoned, former military general Yoav Gallant would go to the relatively less experienced Saar.

However, that move seemed to be abandoned as Israel began its series of major strikes against Hezbollah.