Netanyahu seeks pardon amid legal woes and falling support, while Lapid gains traction with global alliances and a pro-Trump Gaza plan.

Benjamin Netanyahu’s political crisis deepened as he sought a presidential pardon amid legal challenges and declining public support, with 52% of Israelis opposing his return. Opposition leader Yair Lapid gained momentum by strengthening international ties, including talks with the UK on trade, arms exports, and a new Gaza governance model involving Egypt. Lapid also supported a Knesset vote on Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan, signaling U.S. cooperation and highlighting stability, in contrast to Netanyahu’s isolated coalition facing ethical scrutiny and economic pressure, including Norway’s exclusion of Israeli firms from its sovereign fund.