“The Man Leading Israel Through Its Defining Battle”

Chosen for leading Israel through one of the most consequential periods in its modern history: Benjamin Netanyahu has spent decades warning that Iran's nuclear ambitions represent an existential threat to Israel. In 2026, that warning became the center of Israel's national security strategy, as Israel confronted the Islamic Republic directly and dramatically weakened the regime's military capabilities and regional axis.

Iran is no longer the same Iran, and Israel is no longer the same Israel.

Benjamin Netanyahu, April

In 2026, Netanyahu oversaw Israel's direct confrontation with the "Axis of Evil," fighting against the Islamic regime and its proxies in the region. Netanyahu served as Prime Minister during a time in which Israel fought on seven different fronts.

But Netanyahu's 2026 legacy is not defined by military action alone. This year Netanyahu declared that Israel had brought back every remaining hostage, an achievement he described as belonging to the entire people of Israel.

Stand up for the truth. Stand up for Israel. Stand up for the Jewish people. Stand up for the Jewish future.

Benjamin Netanyahu, 2026

This message captures why Netanyahu remains such a consequential figure for Jews around the world. At a time when Israel has faced unprecedented international pressure, Netanyahu has positioned himself not only as Israel's prime minister, but as one of the world's most prominent voices arguing for Israel's right to defend itself and for the security of the Jewish people.

As Israel approaches elections, regardless of political opinion, few people have had a greater impact on Israel's security, its relationship with the United States and the wider Middle East, or the global conversation surrounding the Jewish state.

In 2026, Netanyahu continued leading Israel through the battle he has described for decades as existential, while insisting that Israel emerge from it stronger, more secure and more capable of defending the Jewish people.

That is why Benjamin Netanyahu is No. 3 on The 36.