Divide and rule: Benjamin Netanyahu’s policy toward social protests in Israel, 2011–2023

This study examines Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership style toward social protests in Israel between 2011 and 2023. Based on the theoretical framing of a transactional or transformational leader, we analyzed Netanyahu’s conduct during the social protests that took place in Israel in 2011, 2020, and 2023. The main conclusion of this study is that Netanyahu practices the divide-and-rule approach that characterizes a transactional leader, thus deepening Israel’s social and political divisions. This supports the argument that Netanyahu’s primary goal is to remain in power, which is typical of a transactional leader, as he constantly strives to drive a wedge between protest groups and disintegrate their cohesion.