Netanyahu's Manipulation of Military and Political Landscapes
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of exploiting the ongoing military and political situations in Israel to achieve what he terms "absolute victory" in Gaza and Lebanon. Military analyst Amos Harel from Haaretz emphasizes that Netanyahu's ambitions extend beyond mere border protection, aiming instead to normalize warfare as part of daily life for Israelis. This strategy includes consolidating military control in Lebanon, where the Israeli army is reportedly advancing against Hezbollah with minimal resistance. Despite this, Harel highlights the significant losses faced by the Israeli army in Gaza and southern Lebanon, including a recent attack that resulted in casualties among Israeli soldiers.
The Role of U.S. Support and Media Normalization
Harel's analysis points out that Netanyahu is attempting to leverage the current circumstances to negotiate a new political settlement, with backing from the United States under President Joe Biden. The U.S. is seen as aligning with Israel's military actions, which Netanyahu hopes to utilize to alter the political landscape in the region. Moreover, Harel criticizes the Israeli media for fostering a sense of normalization around ongoing bombings, suggesting that such coverage desensitizes the public to the violence. He notes that statements from officials, like the Israeli Police Chief, further entrench this normalization, framing repeated attacks as an inescapable part of life.
Implications for Internal Politics and Military Independence
The analysis also delves into Netanyahu's political maneuvering, particularly his efforts to solidify power through alliances with far-right parties. This coalition is viewed as a means to push through controversial legislation aimed at controlling military accountability and ensuring loyalty among military leaders to government policies. Harel warns that these developments could lead to a more authoritarian state, undermining the independence of the military and exacerbating internal divisions within Israeli society. He concludes that Netanyahu's pursuit of "absolute victory" could spiral into ongoing crises, complicating any future resolution to the conflict.
