Netanyahu’s victory in 1996 remains one of the greatest political comebacks in Israel.

Over three decades, Netanyahu’s pivot to divisive electioneering has paid off.

Netanyahu’s victory in 1996 remains one of the greatest political comebacks in Israel.

On May 29, 1996, in Israel's first selection of a prime minister by direct vote, Benjamin Netanyahu defeated Shimon Peres. The margin of victory was less than 1 percent.

Netanyahu’s rise marked the beginning of a new political age in Israel, one defined by sound bites, self-promotion, and lasting consequences.