Israeli newspapers have highlighted what they describe as a state of collapse within Benjamin Netanyahu's government. They argue that the administration is facing one of its most challenging periods, particularly due to its inability to secure a decisive victory in its ongoing conflict with the Gaza Strip. Prominent publications such as the Jerusalem Post and Haaretz have stressed the urgent need for early elections to form a more capable government.
The Jerusalem Post editorial claims that the ruling coalition is nearing collapse and that the country is experiencing one of its most difficult times since 1948. The paper argues for delegitimizing Netanyahu's government and setting a quick date for new elections, emphasizing that Israel needs leadership that prioritizes national interests over partisanship.
An opinion piece in Haaretz echoes these sentiments, stating that Tel Aviv is 'incapable of achieving victory under the current disaster government,' which has been defeated on all fronts. The article suggests that Israel must reorganize and hold elections to replace its political and security leadership to face future risks effectively.
Yedioth Ahronoth reports that the Biden administration is very angry with Netanyahu's recent statements criticizing Washington, which have caused significant damage to Israeli-American relations. The paper notes that Netanyahu should have kept these differences private and that his exaggerations regarding arms shipments are unfounded.
On the military front, Yossi Cooper Wasser, former head of research at Israeli military intelligence, told the Wall Street Journal that confrontations between Israel and Lebanese Hezbollah remain under control. However, he added that the Israeli army's approval of operational plans for an attack in Lebanon aims to push Hezbollah to reduce its activities and agree to a ceasefire in Gaza.
The Washington Post reported on a United Nations Human Rights Office statement that Israel might have repeatedly violated the laws of war by using explosive weapons with massive destructive effects in densely populated areas of the Gaza Strip. UN officials confirmed that the destruction and killing are part of an intentional policy by Israel.
Meanwhile, protests demanding early elections have intensified. About five thousand people gathered in front of Netanyahu's house in Caesarea, while hundreds more demonstrated in front of his residence on Gaza Street in Jerusalem. Protest leaders, including 'Brothers in Arms' activists and members of 'Building an Alternative,' called for the restoration of the mandate to the public.
Family members and activists also blocked major roads, demanding a deal to be reached for the abductees. Demonstrators, including the 'Ama Ara' group of mothers of fighters, urged Netanyahu to step down if he lacks a clear plan, stating, 'We don't have children for wars without goals.'
In Jerusalem, protesters accused Netanyahu of incompetence and called for the dissolution of the government. They criticized his focus on political maneuvering rather than addressing urgent national issues. The 'Free in our country' group emphasized that the Israeli public is no longer willing to pay the price of Netanyahu's corruption and failure, urging immediate elections.
- The Jerusalem Post and Haaretz are among the leading Israeli newspapers calling for early elections to replace Netanyahu's government. They argue that the current administration has failed to secure victory in Gaza and is harming Israel's national interests.
- Yedioth Ahronoth highlights the strained relations between Israel and the United States, exacerbated by Netanyahu's public criticism of Washington. The newspaper suggests that Netanyahu's exaggerations about arms shipments are further damaging his credibility.
- Protests across Israel are growing, with demonstrators demanding immediate elections and criticizing Netanyahu's leadership. Groups like 'Ama Ara' and 'Free in our country' are vocal in their opposition, emphasizing the need for a government that can effectively address Israel's challenges.
