In a surprising turn of events, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's popularity has experienced a boost in the polls following remarks made by New York Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer calling for new elections. Critics argue that the Biden administration's growing criticism of the Jewish state may have contributed to this surge in support.

Senator Schumer, a lifelong supporter of Israel, stated on Thursday that the Netanyahu coalition no longer meets the needs of the country since October 7th, when the world has undergone radical changes. He criticized the current governing vision, claiming it is outdated and hindering the Israeli people.

Israel's Channel 14 published a survey suggesting that Netanyahu's conservative bloc could gather six additional seats in the parliament after Minister-without-Portfolio Gideon Sa'ar terminated his partnership with Benny Gantz's National Unity Party. According to the poll, Netanyahu would secure 56 seats in the Israeli Knesset, but a bloc of parties requires 62 mandates to form a new government.

Mideast expert Caroline Glick believes that Schumer's call for Netanyahu's ouster has inadvertently strengthened the Prime Minister politically. Glick explains that Netanyahu is merely responding to the demands of the public, and attempts to dislodge him from power could solidify his support and potentially attract new followers.

The repercussions of Schumer's speech have reverberated throughout Israel as the country strives to combat the Hamas terrorist organization in Rafah, Gaza, as part of its ongoing self-defense war. Critics argue that Schumer and the Biden administration fail to comprehend the gravity of the situation, viewing it as a conventional war rather than a counterterror operation. They emphasize that Hamas initiated a full-scale invasion, launching a massive cyberattack and bombarding Israel with thousands of rockets.

Schumer's call for new elections elicited strong opposition from Israelis who view it as disrespectful towards their democracy and sovereignty. Former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren expressed his dismay, emphasizing that Israel is an ally and deserves respect as a longstanding democracy that has never known non-democratic rule or true peace.

Opinions among Israeli citizens are divided. Some, like Dov Fox, believe that foreign politicians should not dictate the outcome of elections in other countries. Others, like Avi Kay, acknowledge Schumer's role as a central actor in U.S.-Israeli relations and believe his intentions are guided by the best interests of Israel.

As the longest-serving prime minister, Netanyahu now faces a critical moment in his leadership following the devastating Hamas attacks on October 7th. His legacy and political survival hang in the balance as the Israeli public closely watches the unfolding political landscape.

It remains to be seen how these events will shape the future of Israeli politics, but for now, Prime Minister Netanyahu seems to be emerging stronger in the face of mounting criticism.