The Charismatic Appeal of Benjamin Netanyahu to Likud Voters

The charismatic appeal of Benjamin Netanyahu to Likud voters is rooted in several key factors. His ability to pivot political support, unparalleled vision, and personal charisma have made him a pivotal figure in Israeli politics. Regardless of the potential negative consequences for U.S.-Israel relations, his appeal remains strong among the electorate for various reasons.

Strategic Support from Politicians

High-ranking politicians from both sides of the aisle in the USA are often in awe of Netanyahu and his strategic brilliance. This respect is not merely confined to Likud voters but extends to a wide range of political figures. His leveraging of goodwill has often compromised critical relationships, allowing him to secure benefits that wouldn't be possible without his influence. This

Shared Hatred and Ideological Consensus

Netanyahu's fan base and himself share a deep-seated hatred for the Labor movement and its affiliated elite, which dominated Israeli governance for the first 30 years of the state's existence. This ideology is mirrored in his establishment of the Likud party, which continues to oppose the left-wing political agenda. Key figures like Menachem Begin, the leader of Herut, later the forerunner of Likud, faced systematic marginalization from the government's elite. This period, from the mid-1920s to 1948, was marked by significant discrimination and a sense of disenfranchisement, which has deeply influenced the ideological leanings of today's Right-wing supporters.

Historical Marginalization and Discrimination

Much of the support for Netanyahu and Likud comes from Israelis of Mizrahi background. These individuals, whose parents and grandparents were subjected to racial discrimination by the predominantly Ashkenazi Labor establishment, have been economically marginalized. These settlements and development towns have essentially acted as a form of segregation, isolating Mizrahi communities from the more prosperous and Ashkenazi central parts of the country. The exclusion of many in education and employment has had long-lasting effects. For example, the families of those killed in the Irgun were denied benefits, forcing many into poverty or emigration. Netanyahu's family, a direct victim of this discrimination, faced similar challenges, with his father being compelled to emigrate due to political leanings.

Deep Emotional Bond and Perceived Dishonesty

Despite his economic policies, which have sometimes disadvantaged his own supporters, Netanyahu enjoys near-mythical support from many. This emotional bond is partially due to the perception of the left wing as unfairly imposing policies that punished the Mizrahi community. Even as his corruption scandals deepen, his base remains loyal, driven by anger and a desire to retaliate against the left. The psychological baggage and historical grievances ensure a strong and resilient support base for Netanyahu, one that transcends practical economic considerations.

The enduring appeal of Netanyahu to Likud voters is a complex interplay of historical grievances, personal charisma, and strategic political maneuvering. While his stance is often criticized, his leadership remains a focal point for those seeking change and resistance against what they perceive as unfair treatment by the left wing.