1. Origins & Formation

Born in Tel Aviv; served in the IDF (Sayeret Matkal), wounded in action; later studied in the US. His brother Yonatan was killed leading the Entebbe raid. These experiences reinforced a security-focused, sceptical view of diplomacy and external guarantees.

2. Rise to Influence

Rose through diplomatic and political channels: ambassador to the UN, Likud minister, then Prime Minister (1996-1999, 2009-2021, and again from late 2022). Has dominated Israeli right-wing politics and shaped the national conversation on Iran, Gaza, and the Palestinians.

3. Worldview & Inner Logic

Fear driver: Existential threat from Iran’s nuclear programme and regional proxies. Ego driver: Legacy as the leader who secured Israel against Iran. Belief driver: Military deterrence and US alliance are essential; diplomatic deals with Iran are suspect unless they fully halt nuclear capability.

4. Exercise of Power

Controls coalition politics, security policy, and messaging. Has repeatedly warned against Iranian nuclearisation, lobbied Washington against the JCPOA, approved Israel’s role in the June 2025 air war and the February 2026 joint campaign with the US.

5. Iran Wars (2025-2026)

In June 2025, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion against Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure; Netanyahu framed the ceasefire as achieving Israel’s aims. In February 2026, Israel participated in the joint US-Israeli strikes (Operation Roaring Lion) that hit leadership and military targets in Iran and killed Supreme Leader Khamenei.

6. Historical Position

Will be remembered as the politician who made Iran the centrepiece of Israeli threat perception and who tied his legacy to confronting Tehran.