Netanyahu hints at exit, says he's 'ready to hand over keys' to unnamed successor

TEL AVIV, ISRAEL: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has, for the first time in years, publicly suggested that he already knows who could eventually take over the country's top job.

Speaking in a newly released interview on Thursday, July 9, the veteran leader revealed that he has someone in mind to succeed him but declined to disclose the person's identity or indicate when such a transition might happen.

Netanyahu claims 'successor already chosen'

During an appearance on the 'Salon with Sharon' podcast hosted by Sharon Gal of i24NEWS, Netanyahu was asked about Israel's political future and whether he had considered who should lead after him.

The prime minister responded by saying the issue had already been discussed privately with the individual he believes is capable of taking over.

"I think that there is someone to whom I am ready to give the keys to the country. I spoke to him about it, but I don't want to designate a time," Netanyahu said.

He did not identify the person or provide any clues about when he might leave office.

Although Netanyahu's remarks sparked speculation about Israel's next leadership, they stopped well short of announcing retirement.

The Israeli leader has continued operating in full campaign mode as the country heads toward elections that must be held by late October. 

He has not publicly indicated any intention to resign before voters return to the polls.

Under Israel's political system, prime ministers do not officially appoint their successors. Any future leader would still need to secure the political support necessary to form a government.

Netanyahu's leadership under scrutiny

Netanyahu's future is expected to remain one of the defining issues in the upcoming election.

Supporters argue that the country's longest-serving prime minister remains the strongest choice to navigate Israel through regional security challenges.

Critics, however, continue to blame his leadership for the intelligence and security failures surrounding the October 7, 2023, attack.

They have also accused him of deepening political divisions while facing an ongoing corruption trial, allegations Netanyahu has consistently denied.

Netanyahu also defended his approach to appointing senior security officials, arguing that Israel's establishment had become resistant to outside perspectives.

According to the prime minister, entrenched thinking within the system made it difficult to bring in new leadership from beyond traditional circles.

He cited the appointment of new Mossad Director Roman Gofman as an example, saying he had to overcome significant resistance despite Gofman's credentials and actions during the October 7 attacks.