Benjamin Netanyahu Elected Israel’s Prime Minister for the First Time. In 1996, Benjamin Netanyahu won the Israeli general election, becoming the youngest Prime Minister in the country’s history at 46. His campaign focused on security and a tough stance against terrorism.
Netanyahu Ousted in Israeli Elections as Barak Wins Prime Ministership. Benjamin Netanyahu's first term as Prime Minister ended in 1999 when Ehud Barak of the Labor Party won the general elections. Netanyahu’s tenure was marked by contentious peace negotiations and security challenges.
1999: Netanyahu’s Defeat
Netanyahu Returns to Politics as Likud Party Leader. After a few years out of the limelight, Netanyahu was re-elected as the leader of the Likud Party in 2002, positioning himself as a key figure in Israeli politics during the Second Intifada.
2002: Political Comeback
Netanyahu Returns as Prime Minister in 2009. Benjamin Netanyahu began his second term as Prime Minister in 2009 after leading Likud to a major victory in the general elections, focusing on security, economic stability, and expanding Israeli settlements.
2009: Netanyahu’s Second Term Begins
Netanyahu Secures Third Term as Israeli Prime Minister. In the 2013 elections, Netanyahu's Likud-Beytenu alliance won a significant share of the vote, securing his third term as Prime Minister. His government continued to promote a strong national security stance.
2013: Netanyahu’s Re-Election
Netanyahu Wins 2015 Elections, Secures Fourth Term as Prime Minister. Benjamin Netanyahu led Likud to a surprising victory in the 2015 elections, despite polls predicting otherwise. His fourth term was marked by ongoing conflicts with Palestinians and tense international relations.
2015: Netanyahu’s Fourth Term
Corruption Investigations Launched Against Netanyahu’s Government. In 2017, investigations into alleged corruption, including bribery and fraud, began to surface against Benjamin Netanyahu. The probes involved accusations of improper dealings with wealthy business figures.
2017: Corruption Allegations Surface
Israeli Elections Lead to Political Gridlock, Netanyahu’s Government Fails to Form Coalition. After two inconclusive elections in 2019, Benjamin Netanyahu struggled to form a stable coalition government, reflecting a deepening political crisis in Israel.
2019: Election Deadlock and Repeat Elections
Netanyahu Indicted on Charges of Bribery, Fraud, and Breach of Trust. In January 2020, Benjamin Netanyahu was formally indicted on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, becoming the first sitting Israeli Prime Minister to face criminal charges.
2020: Netanyahu Faces Indictment