Netanyahu's Stance on Gaza Conflict
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing criticism for prioritizing his political interests over reaching a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas. Political analysts and former military officials have expressed concerns that Netanyahu's insistence on continuing the war is hindering the negotiation process. Rafif Rucker, a political affairs correspondent for Channel 13, revealed that Netanyahu is reluctant to conclude a deal and would prefer to resume the conflict, seeking a public statement from the Americans to justify his actions.
Hamas' Demands and Tunnel Capabilities
On the other side, Hamas is demanding guarantees from the Americans to ensure that negotiations can proceed without the resumption of fighting. The Qatari capital is currently hosting indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel, aiming to reach a ceasefire agreement and finalize a prisoner exchange deal. Analysts have highlighted the efficiency of Hamas' tunnel networks, particularly in central Gaza, Rafah, and Shuja'iya, which pose significant challenges to the Israeli army.
Economic Impact and International Reactions
The economic cost of the ongoing conflict is escalating, with the Governor of the Israeli Central Bank, Professor Amir Yaron, warning that the war's duration is a financial burden. Additionally, Hamas has accused Netanyahu of sabotaging the negotiations by escalating attacks and ordering evacuations in Gaza. A senior Hamas official claimed that these actions are intended to undermine the negotiation process. Netanyahu's office, however, maintains that the IDF's operations have pressured Hamas into negotiations, outlining stringent conditions for any potential deal.
- Former head of the Israeli Military Intelligence Division, Amos Yadlin, criticized Netanyahu for his focus on political survival and described the prime minister's quest for 'absolute victory' as an irresponsible approach. Yadlin also highlighted that the real threats and challenges for Israel lie in the north, particularly with Hezbollah.
- Amit Segal, a political affairs analyst for Channel 12, discussed the Israeli army's concerns regarding Hamas' tunnel capabilities. He noted that the tunnels in central Gaza and Rafah are highly efficient, enabling Hamas to approach the border fence. The army believes that while Hamas can still carry out attacks near the border, they will not be on the same scale as the October 7 incident.
- Economic analyst Matan Khadorov from Channel 13 reported that the ongoing conflict is exceeding the Israeli Central Bank's previous cost expectations. The prolonged duration of the war is creating a significant economic burden for Israel.
- Hamas' announcement accused Netanyahu of placing new obstacles in the negotiations by escalating attacks and ordering evacuations in Gaza. The organization called on mediators to intervene and prevent Netanyahu from sabotaging the negotiations. The IDF's recent evacuation orders in Gaza are seen by Hamas as attempts to disrupt the peace process.
