Netanyahu Faces Escalating Political Turmoil Amidst Prolonged Gaza War
Israeli political dynamics continue to roil as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu navigates increasing pressure internally and externally regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The tension escalated significantly after former Defense Minister Benny Gantz, along with his colleagues Gadi Eisenkot and Hili Tropper from the State Camp party, announced their departure from Netanyahu's emergency government established in October. Gantz criticized Netanyahu for offering 'empty promises' rather than leading Israel to a 'true victory.'
The friction between Netanyahu and his now-former allies further intensified following revelations from a controversial document by Israeli writer Ben Caspit. Caspit's article in Maariv newspaper highlighted a leaked strategic vision proposed by Eisenkot, which outlined critical actions he believed necessary for Israel's military success. According to Eisenkot, Netanyahu’s approach aims to extend the war indefinitely, rather than achieving decisive victories.
Eisenkot’s document, reportedly drafted on February 15, recommended escalating military pressure in Rafah and the central camps, efforts delayed by Netanyahu. Key proposed actions included a timely declaration of war, focusing military efforts in the south and north, ground maneuvers, handling kidnapped individuals, and continuing military engagements. The document underlined the stunted strategic decision-making of Netanyahu's war council, accusing it of wasting critical opportunities.
Amidst this ongoing tumult, Netanyahu’s coalition still holds a majority with 64 out of 120 Knesset members, even after Gantz's departure. However, his coalition partners, predominantly ultra-nationalists and ultra-Orthodox factions, are pressing for more influence in strategic decisions, particularly National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who has called for a permanent conquest of Gaza and heightened conflicts with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Netanyahu maintains his narrative of pursuing ‘absolute victory,’ despite the backlash. He emphasizes the necessity of achieving these goals for ensuring Israel’s future, arguing against halting the war prematurely even with the complexity of the multi-front battle Israel faces against groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and others backed by Iran.
The political scene remains highly volatile, with U.S. interest in a more moderate Israeli interlocutor waning post-Gantz’s exit, raising possibilities of early elections. Current polls suggest Gantz's National Unity party would outperform Netanyahu’s Likud if elections were held immediately.
- Gantz's departure signals a potential shift in Israeli politics, as Netanyahu loses a key figure seen as vital by international allies, especially the United States.
- The ongoing conflict has significantly strained Israel's political landscape, showcasing deep divides within the government and the broader public. Netanyahu’s insistence on prolonged engagements indicates a struggle to balance military objectives with political stability.
