Truth about Military Goals in Ghaza
Eisenkot: Questions Netanyahu’s Gaza Strategy. He accuse Netha nahu’s of dishonesty regarding the military goals in Gaza.
Rejection of Palestinian state:
Netanyahu rejects the US push for a future Palestinian state and vows to continue the offensive until “complete victory.” Gadi Eisenkot, a key member of the war cabinet, disagrees, stating those pushing for the “absolute defeat” of Hamas are not telling the truth. Eisenkot, a retired general, lost his son in combat in Gaza.
Mr Netanyahu Failure:
Gadi Eisenkot asserts Netanyahu bears “sharp and clear responsibility” for failing to protect Israel on October 7. Eisenkot calls for fresh elections, citing a lack of trust in the current leadership. Hamas initiated a surprise attack on southern Israel, resulting in approximately 1,300 casualties and 240 hostages. Israeli air strikes in Gaza, as reported by the Hamas-run health ministry, have claimed almost 25,000 lives since.
Tensions within Israel Government:
Cabinet tensions rise, with reports of strained communication between Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The gap between Israel and Western allies widens, especially after Netanyahu rejects the idea of a future Palestinian state. White House adviser John Kirby notes the differing perspectives of the United States and Israel. The State Department emphasizes the necessity of a Palestinian state to address Israel’s security challenges.
Joe Biden Discussion With Mr Netanyahu
President Joe Biden discusses a two-state solution with Netanyahu, marking their first call in nearly a month. Biden, when asked about the possibility of a two-state solution with Netanyahu in office, states it’s not impossible, mentioning various types of such solutions. Despite Netanyahu’s career-long resistance to a Palestinian state, Biden’s comments contradicting him contribute to the sense of Netanyahu’s growing international isolation.
US Role:
The US has consistently attempted to shape Israel’s military strategy in the ongoing conflict. They advocate for more precision-guided attacks in Gaza instead of blanket air strikes, counsel against a ground invasion, and propose meaningful talks for a two-state solution. However, Netanyahu has frequently rejected these suggestions during tense meetings with US officials. This has intensified frustration in certain American circles regarding President Biden’s unwavering support for Israel.
Israel Allies:
In the midst of widespread death in the conflict, Israel’s allies are optimistic about reviving the dormant two-state plan for lasting peace. However, Netanyahu’s comments suggest a contrary stance, aligning more with a future Trump administration. This positioning may be timed to energize pro-Israel supporters in a US election year. Domestically, the increasingly unpopular prime minister is relying on the far-right to support his government. A recent poll indicates that only 15% of Israelis want him to retain his position after the war.
Support for Military Action:
While most Israelis still support military action against Hamas, the majority now emphasizes prioritizing the return of the remaining hostages rather than the challenging goal of destroying Hamas. Netanyahu’s recent remarks on a future Palestinian state also reject Arab attempts to mediate in the conflict.
Saudi Arabia:
Saudi Arabia has offered the incentive of normalizing ties with Israel in a ceasefire deal, including a two-state solution. However, Israel’s prime minister appears to have anchored his political survival to a hard-line, anti-Palestinian stance. Netanyahu can no longer present himself as “Mr. Security” following the worst attacks in Israel’s history occurring under his watch. Now, he positions himself as “Mr. No Independent Palestine,” aligning with the public sentiment that, while increasingly disenchanted with him, is still too traumatized to consider a Palestinian state nearby.
