Netanyahu's Resurgence Amid U.S. Strikes on Iran: A Turning Point for Israeli Politics

With U.S. involvement escalating tensions, Prime Minister Netanyahu finds his political career revitalized amidst heightened conflicts with Iran, marking a crucial moment in both Israeli leadership and Middle Eastern geopolitics.

In the wake of the U.S. airstrikes on Iran during the early hours of June 22, 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political fortunes are witnessing a remarkable turnaround. Twenty months post the devastating Hamas assault on Israel, which had significantly tarnished his reputation and security assurances, Netanyahu now stands on the cusp of political revival. For years, he has emphasized the need to neutralize Iran's nuclear ambitions, branding them as Israel's foremost peril. The recent military actions, paired with Israel's own offensive measures, are perceived by many as a pivotal moment in his political saga that could secure his position and potentially shape his legacy.

Mazal Mualem, who authored a biography on Netanyahu, suggested that this moment aligns with the prime minister's aspirations since his original ascendancy to power back in 1996, deeming it a defining success against what many view as the most formidable threat facing Israel. However, in Iran, the immediate impacts of the U.S. strikes are still unfolding, with concerns aroused over Iran's possible retaliatory measures, including attacks on U.S. military sites and assets, raising fears of a protracted conflict. The path forward remains uncertain, particularly as the situation continues to evolve amid heightened military tensions.