Defeating Hamas is Impractical
Internal disagreements within the Israeli government are intensifying following war cabinet minister Gadi Eisenkot’s assertion that the primary objective of defeating Hamas is impractical. He has proposed holding elections in the coming months as a way to address the situation.Top of Form
“Those who say that there was a major blow and demolition of the capabilities in the north of the strip are telling the truth,” Eisenkot told told Israeli broadcaster Channel 12 News on Thursday evening. “Those who talk about an absolute defeat and lack of will and ability do not tell the truth. This is why there is no need to tell tall tales.”
Eisenkot spoke after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated the continuation of Israel’s military campaign until achieving “complete victory” over Hamas. Netanyahu’s statement followed the withdrawal of some Israeli troops from northern Gaza, signaling the onset of a new phase in the conflict.
But Eisenkot said: “A strategic achievement was not reached … We did not demolish the Hamas organization.”
The comments indicate ongoing divisions within Israel’s coalition government and a growing dissatisfaction with Netanyahu’s military strategies. Formed shortly after the October 7 attack by Hamas, the Israeli war cabinet comprises ministers who already have conflicting viewpoints.
Calls for fresh elections
More than three months into the conflict initiated by Netanyahu in Gaza, there is no resolution in sight. Hamas’ surprise attacks led to Israel’s military campaign, causing 1,200 casualties and seizing 240 hostages. More than 100 hostages are believed to be alive, with 105 released in a December truce. Dozens of hostages were killed, and their bodies remain in Gaza. Over 24,000 people were reported killed in Gaza, with extensive damage to the territory, according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health.
Hazan indicates that Israel’s goals in the war include destroying Hamas and securing the return of hostages. After over a hundred daysof fighting it seems defeating Hamas is Impractical. Eisenkot stresses the immediate priority of saving civilians (hostages) rather than eliminating the enemy, with plans to address Hamas later. In November, a poll by the Israel Democracy Institute showed significant backing for defeating Hamas. The poll also stressed on bringing back hostages.
Tensions with US over Palestinian statehood
Israel’s relationship with the US has deteriorated, with Prime Minister Netanyahu strongly rejecting the creation of a Palestinian state post-war, contrary to US and international calls. Netanyahu emphasizes that such an arrangement would jeopardize Israel’s security. He insists on Israel’s control over all land west of the Jordan River. People opposing Netanyahu’s leadership are termed as pro palestine. Analyst Hazan predicts worsening ties with the US, attributing it to Netanyahu’s desire to remain in power. Calls from current and former Israeli politicians for Netanyahu to step down have emerged. Eisenkot dismisses the notion that Netanyahu is prolonging the conflict for political survival. Former Prime Minister Ehud Barak warns of the risk of alienating the US with Netanyahu’s strategy.
Netanyahu’s political survival
Analysts suggest that after the war, attention may shift to Netanyahu’s pre-war shortcomings, focusing on the October 7 attack’s responsibility and a new leadership mandate. Netanyahu, facing protests pre-war, refuses to take responsibility and avoids discussing post-war plans, leaving far-right coalition members with controversial ideas. Hazan argues that Netanyahu sees the war continuation as essential for political survival, potentially conflicting with the Biden administration. A recent poll indicates only 15% of Israelis want Netanyahu to stay prime minister post-war; 23% prefer Benny Gantz. Even if elections occur, Netanyahu may oppose a Palestinian state, asserting he alone can refuse it to the US. Plesner disagrees, stating Netanyahu’s decisions don’t solely determine the war’s extension, and there’s insufficient support for a ceasefire empowering Hamas.
