Netanyahu-Led Coalition Wins Majority in Israeli Parliament

A coalition of right-wing and religious parties won a majority in Israel’s recent elections, paving the way for Benjamin Netanyahu to return as prime minister. 

For Context: Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid conceded to Netanyahu and wished him success, saying, “The state of Israel comes before any political consideration.” However, Lapid’s liberal Yesh Atid party gained seats, making it likely that he will serve as the opposition leader across from Netanyahu. 

How the Left Covered It: Left-rated U.S. media tended to frame Netanyahu’s victory negatively. A USA Today (Lean Left bias) headline said he would form an “extreme right-wing government,” and two opinion writers in the Los Angeles Times (Lean Left bias) said he won with “a coalition of racists.”

How the Right Covered It: Coverage from the right framed Netanyahu more positively, with one Fox News (Right bias) homepage tagline saying, “BIBI GOT BACK.” Some coverage highlighted congratulations from right-wing figures like Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Hungarian President Viktor Orbán.

How Israeli Outlets Covered It: The Jerusalem Post (Center bias) Editorial Board called for Israel to accept the result and “let them govern.” Some coverage from Israeli outlets focused on Itamar Ben-Gvir, whose far-right Otzma Yehudit party is a pivotal member of Netanyahu’s coalition. A writer in Haaretz (Center bias) asked whether the success of religious parties would turn Israel into a “theocracy.”